Synaptix: A Web Platform based on Gamification Techniques for the Study of Clinical Cases

Abstract

In this paper we present a Web platform designed to allow medical students and practitioners to study clinical cases on their own. The main objective of this proposal is to address key problems inherent in the traditional study of clinical cases by providing a tool that implements techniques and elements of gamification, simulation, and serious games. The proposed platform offers an improved learning experience through a virtual environment that provides an alternative method for training and interpretation of clinical cases for medical examinations. Medical students and practitioners can play the role of a real doctor in a simulated office. In particular, the platform allows medical students and practitioners to learn through their mistakes without hurting human beings. In addition, this platform is designed to allow users to add new clinical cases and make them available for study. The platform was validated in a local hospital by 8 medical practitioners. The participants indicated that the platform design, the tutorials included, and the ease of use factors are satisfactory.