Web-based adaptive training simulator system for cardiac life support.
OBJECTIVE
We introduce a web-based adaptive training simulator system to exercise cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills. Our purpose is to provide emergency physicians with an additional training tool for cardiac life support clinical cases, by integrating an adaptive learning environment with a web-based case simulator.


METHODS
Adaptive systems reflect some features of the user in the user model and apply this model to adapt various visible aspects of the system to the user. Our system follows a stage-based learning model with several steps to personalize student learning. First, students learn the theory and content of life support and take computerized tests to evaluate their declarative knowledge of these areas. Second, they practice with clinical case examples and complete an exam at the appropriate level of difficulty to assess their practical knowledge. Finally, they train with additional clinical cases.


CONCLUSIONS
In order to evaluate the usefulness of the system, we used it in two traditional advanced life support courses at the Jaen Hospital in Spain, as an additional and complementary tool within the course. Results show that the use of adaptation techniques can improve student performance.
Romero
Cristóbal
C
Department of Computer Sciences, University of Cordoba, 14071 Campus de Rabanales, Cordoba, Spain. cromero@uco.es
Ventura
Sebastián
S
Gibaja
Eva L
EL
Hervás
Cesar
C
Romero
Francisco
F
D022561:Advanced Cardiac Life Support / Q000193:education*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004501:Education, Medical / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D017145:Models, Educational