Multi-Language Virtual Patient Simulation

• Gael Lucero-Palacios, Computer Science, University of Delaware

• Leila Barmaki, COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCES, University of Delaware

In today’s modern world, technology has improved all aspects of the healthcare field, but there’s a notable gap in the education of healthcare professionals. Our project aims to innovate the learning space for aspiring healthcare professionals, focusing on midwifery, which is crucial for maternal and infant healthcare. In our project, students will participate in hands-on learning, simulating real scenarios with a virtual pregnant patient. This will expose them to more realistic topics and questions, enhancing their ability to handle sensitive conversations about sexual health and wellness during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. The simulation involves two types of participants: the Host (Teacher), who uses text buttons to control the dialogue of the virtual avatar, which represents a pregnant patient. The Nurse (Student), who communicates with the avatar through spoken interaction, allowing them to practice responding to the patient’s needs and concerns in a controlled and realistic setting. We hypothesize that our project will effectively enhance the students’ capabilities to not only receive sensitive questions but to handle them more comfortably and competently. The aim is to provide an innovative way to enhance the quality of midwifery education by creating a safe and hands-on experience that encourages students to be better prepared for the challenges they will face in their future careers.