[ EYESI simulator for training ophthalmology residents]

ABSTRACT

To assess various aspects of integrating a virtual reality [VR] simulator in the training of ophthalmology residents In this qualitative study, some aspects of the VR EYESI simulator as a health technology were assessed. Data was collected using a multiple-choice questionnaire and several deep interviews addressed to users and administrators of simulator training. Face and construct validity were measured as a score out of 100. Scores were given by 19 novice residents and 4 experienced fellowship candidates. Residents gave a score of 85.08 for face validity and a 70.87 for the construct validity of the EYESI simulator. Fellowship candidates scored its face and construct validity at 60 and 80.66, respectively. 63.2% of residents believed that the simulator is a very useful training tool and 75% of fellowships viewed it as useful. Eighty percent of interviewed attending physicians believed that the simulator reduced the time and improved the quality of training. They also stated that residents who were trained with the simulator were adequately prepared for entering the operating room and showed better eye-hand coordination. All the stakeholders strongly believed that simulation is a necessary method of education. The EYESI simulator is an up-to-date virtual reality medium that enjoys good face and content and face validity. It was also shown to be an effective method of training since it decreased the time and improved the quality of training