Student Engagement Using HoloLens Mixed-Reality Technology in Human Anatomy Laboratories for Osteopathic Medical Students: an Instructional Model

Abstract

Mixed-reality technology is a powerful tool used in healthcare and medical education to engage students in life-like scenarios. This blend of virtual and augmented reality images incorporates virtual projections with the real environment to allow real-time observation and interaction [ 1 ]. While this immersive technology offers advantages over cadaver dissections, it creates new challenges to keeping students engaged [ 2 , 3 ]. Student engagement improves students’ commitment to learning, critical thinking, and motivation and results in successful course outcomes [ 4 , 5 ]. This paper provides an activity model using the HoloLens mixed-reality technology to deliver human gross anatomy laboratory sessions to first-year osteopathic medical students. The activity was designed using Gagne’s model for instructional design and team-based learning to create an active learning model, which targets the behavioral, emotional, and cognitive dimensions of student engagement [ 6 , 7 ]: behavioral engagement through autonomy and time on task, emotional engagement through providing the guiding exploration and narrative flow to accompany students’ visual experience, and cognitive engagement by incorporating team-based learning (TBL) and case-based learning (CBL). The instructional model also answers the call for a new type of virtual reality instructor and pedagogical strategy that addresses the unique challenges and increases student engagement with this new technology. The effectiveness of this classroom activity was assessed by observing students for indicators or behaviors of student engagement, which are discussed. Further studies are required to measure the extent to which these indicators were exhibited and compare student engagement with this mixed-reality to didactic cadaver-based laboratory sessions.

Mixed reality in U.S. retail: A review: Analyzing the immersive shopping experiences, customer engagement, and potential economic implications

“…This model can be adapted for retail, where engaging customers on multiple levels -behaviorally, emotionally, and cognitively -is crucial. The findings suggest that MR technology, when used effectively, can significantly enhance engagement by providing immersive, interactive experiences that resonate with users on various levels (Richards, 2023).…”

“…This study highlights the potential of interactive AI and MR technology in creating engaging retail experiences that not only attract customers but also encourage them to engage more deeply with the brand (Kathikeyan et al, 2022). Richards (2023) presented a case study on the use of HoloLens MR technology in human anatomy laboratories for osteopathic medical students. While this study is set in an educational context, it provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of MR in engaging users.…”

Mobile Devices or Head-Mounted Displays: A Comparative Review and Analysis of Augmented Reality in Healthcare

“…Many other studies have found that AR learning enhances learning outcomes compared to conventional methods. This includes increased motivation to learn, higher self-confidence in the acquired abilities, and a greater capacity to apply learned procedures in clinical settings [62], [64], [67]. However, researchers also concluded that AR education tools need further refinement and pre-learning orientation on the use of AR devices, which is necessary for students to properly utilize these tools [65].…”

“…[54]- [57], [62], [63], [66], [68] functionalities, we found that 3 (25%), 4 (33%), 3 (25%), 2 (17%), and 0 (0%) mobile-based applications, as well as 1 (3%), 18 (50%), 10 (28%), 3 (8%), and 4 (11%) HMDbased applications, fell into the 5 categories following the order described above, respectively, as shown in Figure 5a. Among the functionalities, 3D visualization and information display are the two most common reasons that both mobileand HMD-based studies implemented AR technology.…”

Development and Utilization of 3D Anatomy Education Content using Metaverse and XR for Remote Telemedicine Education

“…Additionally, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) has been used to create interactive 3D models that allow students to explore the body and its systems in an engaging and immersive way. The integration of these technologies has revolutionized the delivery of medical education and expanded the possibilities for remote learning and digital resources (12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18).…”