Integrate Virtual Patients in Problem-Based Learning
Enhance Clinical Reasoning Skills of Undergraduate Medical Students
At Ajman University College of Medicine, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) has long been a key component of medical education. While it effectively promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, the traditional paper-based format lacks interactivity and real-world context, limiting its ability to fully prepare students for clinical practice.
In response to this challenge, the university introduced Body Interact Virtual Patients, blending PBL’s structured learning approach with virtual simulations’ immersive, realistic, and adaptive nature. This innovative hybrid methodology is known as Simtegration.
Modernizing Problem-Based Learning
Ajman University designed a hybrid PBL model divided into four phases:
- Pre-Session briefing
- 1st session – Collaborative case exploration
- Self-Directed Learning
- 2nd session – Peers presentations and reflection
The process began with a pre-session briefing, during which students were introduced to the simulation platform, ensuring their psychological safety and familiarity with its interface.
In the first session, students worked together to solve a virtual patient case, applying their medical knowledge in real-time. Facilitators acted as guides, prompting discussion and steering clinical reasoning rather than providing direct answers. The session pace was adjusted based on students’ knowledge level and academic year, making it an adaptive and personalized learning experience.
Between sessions, students conducted self-directed research, identifying knowledge gaps and refining their understanding of the case.
The second session focused on peer presentations and reflections. Students shared insights on their decision-making, discussed what went well and what didn’t, and explored alternative clinical approaches. This structured debriefing reinforced self-reflection, teamwork, and metacognition, ensuring deeper learning.
The Impact of Virtual Patients on the Learning Experience
By integrating Body Interact into PBL, Ajman University has modernized medical training, making learning more interactive, engaging, and clinically relevant. Students reported that the realism and time-sensitive nature of virtual patient cases strengthened their ability to assess, diagnose, and manage patients with greater confidence.
An impressive 83% of students strongly agreed that this learning experience enhanced their critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills, demonstrating the powerful impact of integrating virtual patients into PBL methodology.
By blending traditional PBL with virtual patients’ interactivity, Ajman University equips future healthcare professionals with the critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills they need to excel in clinical practice. This modernized approach enhances student engagement and standardizes learning, ensuring every student gains the confidence and competence required for real-world patient care.
As Dr. Erum Khan aptly concluded, “Let’s learn with virtual patients and save real lives.”
