Computer-assisted learning: cyberPatient (TM) - A step in the future of surgical education

Computer-assisted learning is a hot topic and is evolving parallel with the rapidly growing computer technology. Today, modern computers with sophisti cated software are able to create a new dimension in the application of man y important pedagogical principles and philosophies, Modem computers with e xcellent multimedia applications are capable of simulating a realistic situ ation that enriches the educational environment, improves the learning proc ess, and brings new challenges to the process of "learning by doing." The u se of computers in medical industry and in medical education lags far behin d other applications in the industrial world. Although a great many compute r-assisted learning programs have been developed in the last decade and pat ient simulation has been attempted, there are no computer programs in the m arket that are capable of simulating the realism of the patient-doctor rela tionship. cyberActive Technology Ltd. has been able to complete this missio n. The computer software cyberPatient(TM) developed by cyberActive Technolo gy Ltd. is able to realize this long-term dream of medical students and edu cators. The discrepancy between theoretical and practical medical knowledge in the classical medical education was greater than in any other aspect of science. In classical medical education, diseases were taught beginning wi th etiology and pathogenesis to signs and symptoms. In practice, the patien t comes to the doctor with complaints, and the doctor has to think backward to find out about the etiology and pathogenesis. This discrepancy created enormous difficulties for interns and young doctors with respect to the app lication of theoretical medicine to medical practice. This was one of the r easons why medical schools turned to a new problem-based learning curriculu m. The new curriculum, however, has brought new challenges and problems of its own. Some of the problems include patient availability, increased deman ds for teachers, and, in turn, significant increases in the costs of medica l education. Intensive use of computers may be a solution for problem-based learning. The aim of this article is to give an overview of computer-based learning and its place in the future of medical education.