Dr Jessica NEUVILLE

I am leading the development of a new online teaching tool called Virtual Optometry Clinic. In the Virtual Optometry Clinic, conversational chatbots respond in a human-like way to simulate a conversation with a real patient. Students engage in a text-based chat with the virtual patients to collect information about presenting symptoms and medical history. To conduct the examination of the virtual patient, students type the tests they want to perform and the chatbot responds with text, photo, or video. After the students have enough information about the case, they submit their diagnosis and management plan.

Once students have entered their individual diagnosis and management plan, they can access a discussion forum where they can view their classmates’ responses, ask questions or add comments, and even select emojis to highlight good answers. The discussion forum is a supportive and interactive space where students can engage in peer learning and strengthen their ability to ‘learn to learn’. The Virtual Optometry Clinic promotes both independent and collaborative learning.