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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
NSU’s ‘Second Life’ Helps Medical Students and Researchers
Kristi Krueger with her Second Life® avatar
Medical students and researchers at Nova Southeastern University are stepping into the virtual world to better serve patients. Using Second Life®, students at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine create avatars that fly into a virtual clinic where students can practice communication skills and diagnostic procedures on virtual world patients. The program allows students to practice in a relaxed environment where they are not afraid to make mistakes. Researchers at NSU are taking Second Life® to a new level, they received a grant to study this virtual world on amputees. Sandra Winkler, Ph.D., was awarded $1 million grant. The idea, to educate and connect amputees from all over the world, it’s a support group with no time or space limitations. They can choose to be an amputee or have their arms and legs, they can choose to be in a wheelchair or they can choose not to. It is also part of a research project working with military spouses in this virtual world and helping amputees and their families plan their home modifications using this virtual world. This story was featured nationally on ABC World News Now and locally on WPLG-MIA (ABC) Local 10 News. For full access to the video click here.