Adapting the Gamified Educational Networking (GEN) Learning Management System to Deliver a Virtual Simulation Training Module to Determine the Enhancement of Learning and Performance Outcomes

Microtomy is a medical laboratory sciences procedure that medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) use to cut tissues for microscopic examination. Due to safety concerns and the potential to destroy tissue samples, learners must perform the procedure correctly. In order to allow for safe and controlled learning, this procedure should be conducted in a simulated setting before attempting with human tissues. The objective of this study is to describe the development and user-based evaluation of a virtual simulation training module. A research group developed the virtual simulation training module's content and design, and a local MLT expert provided the content. Nine students enrolled in a university-based medical laboratory sciences program provided feedback about the module. The results demonstrated that the virtual simulation training module was an effective and user-friendly learning tool for the medical laboratory sciences program. Although more validity and efficacy testing are required in the future, the students indicated a potential to use this module to prepare future students for hands-on exercise in a simulation laboratory setting.