Acoustic Labyrinth: Validation of a game – based heart auscultation educational tool

Abstract

The aim of the study was to validate a prototype of a game-based educational tool for improving auscultation skills. The tool was presented to 12 medical school students studying at a foundation university. The data collection tools of the study were: Cardiac sound identification form, educational tool evaluation form and auscultation survey form. Key findings of the study were: 1—Each medical student increased their identification skills and retention was possible. 2—The most incorrectly identified heart sound was the most correctly identified heart sound after using the tool. 3—Medical students sided with the tool for it is flexible, quicker method of learning and getting feedback, can be used anytime, anywhere without interruption of daily life. 4—Since students felt skillful and epic, in real-World tackling problems, on the mission; saving lives, and competitive, they repeated the content otherwise they would not. 5—The tool created a hype and motivation for further learning. 6—Tool was effective on the users with possible restricted acoustic capability which could imply findings might also be used for improving listening skills and musical ear.

Keywords: Stethoscope skills, heart auscultation training, mobile learning, game-based learning, retention.