Virtual reality and 3D printers have the potential to revolutionize the way students learn and prepare for high-demand careers, especially in the medical field. The era of COVID-19 saw a surge in school makerspaces and the use of 3D printers, but are students really utilizing this technology to its full potential?
3D printers are currently being used in schools for a variety of purposes, from incorporating them into math and science lessons to creating little trinkets as rewards for completing tasks. However, what if we shifted the focus and used this technology to create a pipeline of talent for fields facing critical shortages, such as healthcare?
One company, syGlass, is already leading the way in using virtual reality to bring medical data to life for students. By allowing students to interact with real-time medical scans, they can see firsthand how they can make a difference in someone’s life. Additionally, combining VR with 3D printing allows students to create tangible models of MRI or CT scans, enhancing their understanding of complex medical concepts.
In the medical field, surgeons are already using VR to plan surgeries and interact with 3D models of a patient’s anatomy. By exposing students to this technology early on, we can better prepare them for a future in healthcare without the need for extensive training post-graduation. Hands-on experience with VR and 3D printing can help build a stronger healthcare workforce for the future.
Traditional teaching methods may not be sufficient to engage and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. Virtual reality offers a unique opportunity for students to explore career paths, simulate real-world scenarios, and gain hands-on experience with medical data. By incorporating VR and 3D printing into education, we can ignite a passion for healthcare in students and ensure a robust workforce in the years to come.
It’s time to move beyond outdated textbooks and embrace technology as a tool for inspiring and educating students. Let’s leverage the technology at our disposal to truly engage and empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.