With this tool, students experience a patient's neurological pathology in a simulated environment by means of virtual reality.
The application “Ponte en mis zapatos”, developed by the Department of Physiotherapy and the XR Lab of the Universidad Europea, has been recognised as the Best self-created digital resource at the 10th Awards at the International Exhibition of Education Technology and Innovation (SIMO Education 2022). Held from 22 to 24 November at IFEMA (Madrid), this leading technology event for teaching professionals has chosen 13 cutting-edge initiatives from different educational centres in Spain.
“Ponte en mis zapatos” is a practical example of the experiential learning this institution bases its Academic Model on. It provides students with a virtual 3D environment where they can experience the neurological pathology of adult patients. The application enables Health Science students to better understand and empathize with functional diversity and its repercussions. This application has been driven by the educational team consisting of Isabel Gaviña, Alberto Bermejo, Roberto Ucero, Leticia Martínez, Laura Rubio, María Medina, Gonzalo Mariscal and Beatriz Martínez.
Dr. Beatriz Martínez, Academic Director at the Universidad Europea told us that it is “an extremely useful tool in the professional development of our students as it allows them to put themselves in the patient shoes and acquire the knowledge necessary to help them overcome complex pathologies such as strokes. These new technologies also give us the opportunity to explore new horizons in the field of education, research, communication and dissemination, essential parts of our University teaching”.
The main driving force behind the project was Isabel Gaviña, coordinator and teacher of Neurological Physiotherapy in the Degree of Physiotherapy. She affirmed that “recognition at this event endorses the effort made by the teaching staff at the Universidad Europea. The application allows students to experience the neurological pathology of the patient in a simulated environment by means of virtual reality”.