Augmented Reality In Healthcare

The effective development of healthcare competencies poses great educational challenges. A possible approach to provide learning opportunities is the use of augmented reality (AR) where virtual learning experiences can be embedded in a real physical context. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in terms of user acceptance, the AR applications developed and the effect of AR on the development of competencies in healthcare.

AR presents the user with a mixed reality by integrating or superimposing virtual elements over what the user is looking at in the real world. Users can build virtual environments such as an operating room, surgical site, patient anatomy, or therapeutic simulation.

AR provides opportunities for more authentic learning and appeals to multiple learning styles, providing students a more personalized and explorative learning experience.

Augmented Reality Technology

• Hardware components for augmented reality are: processor, display, sensors and input devices. Modern mobile computing devices like smartphones and tablet computers contain these elements which often include a camera and MEMS sensors such as accelerometer, GPS, and solid state compass, making them suitable AR platforms.
• Various technologies are used in Augmented Reality rendering including optical projection systems, monitors, hand held devices, and display systems worn on the human body.
• A virtual retinal display (VRD) is a personal display device under development at the University of Washington's Human Interface Technology Laboratory.