CASE STUDIES for Dentistry: development of a tool to author interactive, multimedia, computer-based patient simulations

Computer-based patient simulations have been used to enhance the dental curriculum since the 1980s. This article describes the development of CASE STUDIES for Dentistry (CSD), a patient case simulation building template, developed at Virginia Commonwealth University, with which authors who have no programming expertise can create realistic, effective, interactive multimedia patient simulations by entering their own information and images into a straightforward, fill in the blanks interface. This program was written with Authorware, by Macromedia Inc. Design considerations included emphasis on information collection and analysis, synthesis of collected information, hypothesis proposal and testing, diagnosis, and treatment planning. The program consists of easily accessible interfaces for both authors and students. Authors build simulated patients using typed-in text and their own images. Faculty can build computer-based simulated patients so that students can immediately practice what they learn in class within a simulated doctor-patient relationship. CSD allows building simulations ranging from simple to complex patients in multiple disciplines. Robust feedback and other features allow students to learn both process and content in a self-directed, interactive environment.