Demonstration with Equipment

Case Based Clinical Microbiology Exercises Delivered Over a LAN: Experiences with IMMEX

Hingley, S., Brown, C., Vasko, M., Coughlin, P.
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Abstract:

A set of clinical cases for first year medical students has been developed as an adjunct to the Microbiological Basis of Medicine course at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. The authoring system IMMEX" (Interactive Multimedia Exercises") was employed as the programming environment to build these cases. Cases were designed as modifications of available case sets. Each case is presented to the student as a clinical history. Other information that can be accessed includes physical examination findings and laboratory test results (including rationale), presented as text and graphics (digitized slides, etc.). The solution to the case problem is completed with a stated diagnosis (as a choice from a pulldown menu), and a prescription drug to be used in treatment of the condition. Feedback can also given to the student regarding the cost of treatment. The student has three attempts to arrive at the correct solution. If the student does not present the solution after three attempts, the solution is presented to him/her. The results of student interaction with the case can be assessed in the "analysis" module of IMMEX" within the authoring environment, representing the most unique feature of the software. The interactions of individual students or groups of students can be observed as they work through the case problem, displayed as a concept map. In this manner, faculty can monitor the progress (or lack thereof) of students and implement interventions to correct conceptual problems as they are being encountered, as opposed to remediation later. The basic design of the software will be presented, along with a demonstration of a sample case, as well as a statement of the problems encountered, and possible solutions. The potential for the use of IMMEX" within medical curricula will be discussed.

Benefit in Attending Session:

The presentation will acquaint the attendee with the design and rationale of IMMEX". The potential for application building in any medical discipline, whether by modifying existing cases, or by building from scratch will be discussed. Observing student progress during their interaction with the case allows for "on the fly" troubleshooting and course management, (hopefully) resulting in greater retention and success rates.

Susan Hingley, PhD
PCOM
4170 City Ave.
Phila, PA, 19131
215-871-6854
Fax Number:
215-871-6869
susanh@pcom.edu
www.pcom.edu
 
Carmen Brown, MSII
Michelle Vasko, MSIII
Patrick Coughlin, PhD
PCOM
4170 City Ave.
Phila, PA, 19131
 
215-871-6526
Fax Number(s):
215-871-6540
Carmenb@pcom.edu
Michellev@pcom.edu
Patc@pcom.edu