Scoping Review of Haptic Integration Within Virtual Simulations: A More Comprehensive Picture

• In Event: Virtual Education: Insights and Innovative Approaches in Online Learning

Abstract

Virtual simulations (VSs) have emerged as effective tools for medical education. However, the lack of haptics in VSs limits their realism and potential in surgical training. A 2019 review on this topic yielded only 9 studies. We conducted an updated search and found 46 studies, including 30 studies excluded by the previous review. Most studies utilized randomized controlled trials designs but faced challenges with small sample sizes. Results indicated that haptics generally improved performance in simple tasks, but findings were mixed for complex tasks. Future work should explore task-specific applications of haptics and consider alternative study designs. We highlight the need for an updated and comprehensive review of haptic integration in VSs to inform evidence-based medical education practices.

Authors

• Sayed Azher, McGill University

• Aralia Mills, McGill University

• Jinzhi He, McGill University

• Taliah Hyjazie, McGill University

• Andrea Quaiattini, McGill University

• Jason Matthew Harley, McGill University