Medical Virtual Patient Simulator (MedSIM) brings a new approach to computer-aided medical teaching and learning by using dynamic simulation and interactive experiments. Medical Virtual Patient Simulator (MedSIM) is a cutting-edge E-learning innovation for medical and other health professionals. It consists of a framework that supports various patient cases, tailored by interdisciplinary medical teams. Each virtual patient case follows the critical path to be followed for a specific patient in a hospital. MedSIM takes the student on a journey that enables the student to interview, examine, conduct physical, systematic and ultimately reach a diagnosis based on the path that is chosen. After the interactions, the student must decide whether each responses is normal or abnormal and use the virtual findings to identify multiple probable diagnosis or reexamine the virtual patient with the goal to narrow down to the correct disease and then provide treatment. We present the architecture and functionality of the MedSIM platform and include a pilot study with medical students.

Rapid advances in computer technologies and relative increase in internet connectivity has transformed Information and Communication Technology as a building block to meet the modern societal needs, mainly in business, industry and governance (Adesote & Fatoki, 2013). Several countries include the knowledge of computer skills as a core for education purposes, a social activity including teaching and learning (J. Augustus Richard, 2015). Implementing ICT in education system has been a multifaceted process, as it integrates technology with the needs of education institutes such as curriculum design, instructor competency, among others to improve efficiency and effectiveness of present education system(Tinto, 2002). According to British Council executive summary on Indian School Education System that there were more than 1.4 million schools, approximately 227 million students enrolled for higher education in various institutes (Ghosh, 2014). In such a situation, factors that retard sustainable development in the present education system,needs to be modified to attain the socio-economic growth of the country(Ozturk, 2001).

Dr. Maya Mahajan, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore, has found a solution to get rid of the lantana weed from the forests in Coimbatore. Chemicals cannot be used as it affected the native species of plants. Since lantana weed plant looks exactly like bamboo and more durable, the only possible solution was to make furniture out of it. “It was a huge responsibility on me. Even the farmers were not sure, but I asked them to just trust me. Now things are good,” said Dr. Maya.

Dr. Maya Mahajan, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore, has found a solution to get rid of the lantana weed from the forests in Coimbatore. Chemicals cannot be used as it affected the native species of plants. Since lantana weed plant looks exactly like bamboo and more durable, the only possible solution was to make furniture out of it. “It was a huge responsibility on me. Even the farmers were not sure, but I asked them to just trust me. Now things are good,” said Dr. Maya.