AIT graduate applies cutting-edge technology to medical education
A recent AIT graduate was featured in the 18 January Bangkok Post for work she began here at AIT and continues at Thammasat University 's School of Dentistry .
Dr. Siriwan Suebnukarn , a new graduate of AIT's Computer Science and Information Management Field of Study, School of Engineering and Technology, developed a computer system that helps bring problem-based learning to the masses.
Known as Comet -- short for Collaborative Medical Tutoring -- the system was developed by Dr. Siriwan during her three years of doctoral study at AIT, under the supervision of Prof. Peter Haddawy , now AIT's Vice President for Education.
Comet is computer-assisted problem-based learning where computers take the place of human tutors. The research may help bring problem-based learning to the public and extend the principles of problem-based learning through the use of modern technology.
In traditional problem-based learning, students in groups of six or eight are presented with a problem and are told to discuss and think aloud possible solutions. A human tutor observes and gives hints if the students become stuck.
With Comet, this discussion takes place through a computer interface: a chat window for students to type and for the computer tutor to provide feedback; a whiteboard for drawing pictures and collaborating; and a 'hypothesis board' that serves as a workspace for the students to connect the items (heads, brains, contusions) with conditions (unconsciousness, bleeding).
According to Prof. Haddawy, Comet actually outperformed the traditional learning methods in tests of the system.
Dr. Siriwan says the methodology from Comet is transferable to other areas of medical education.
Prof. Haddawy says the system is being improved and extended. Two of his current master's degree students -- Lehong Hai and Phatthanaphong Chomphuwiset - are developing a system that can even recognize anatomical parts. The system, which is supported by a Royal Thai Government grant, can identify not only organs but also multiple views and different sections of the organs.
To read the 18 January 2006 Bangkok Post story in full, click here.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/180106_Database/18Jan2006_data51.php