[Modern approaches to studying child nutrition issues by students and doctors using digital interactive technologies].

Abstract

Digital interactive learning is spreading across many medical specialties, using a variety of methods: from problem-solving simulators to standardized patients, from computer modeling to mannequins. The purpose of the study was to analyze innovative approaches to independent work when studying issues of child nutrition by pediatric students and practicing doctors. Material and methods. The pediatric simulator, developed by the Higher School of Education and Science in collaboration with the teaching staff of seven medical universities in Russia, allows you to train and test students in conditions close to real ones, and to reinforce the issues of child nutrition. An analysis of the effectiveness of organizing online education among students (n=150, 15.7% boys, 85.3% girls, average age - 20.0±1.4 years; duration - February-May 2020) of the 3rd year of Sechenov and Smolensk Medical Universities was carried out using a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Using Google forms, the questionnaire was created with questions regarding the respondents' attitude towards distance learning. The effectiveness of distance learning on the studied simulator was analyzed for 84 students (n=48 - main group, n=36 - control group), a case analysis was carried out with the prescription of the diet therapy to a virtual patient with the lactase deficiency. Results. In two modes of the program (training and testing) the imitation of a dialogue with a virtual 3D patient, examination, diagnosis and treatment, including diet therapy were implemented. A number of diet therapy algorithms are presented in additional illustrations. The use of a children's simulator with a 10-point assessment system showed greater effectiveness in mastering practical skills in the main group compared to the control group. The students who mastered the digital simulator indicated satisfaction in acquiring new knowledge and skills, increased motivation to learn and gain practical skills in examination, supervision and prescription of the diet therapy, approaching 6-9 points (р=0.005). For the control group, the questionnaire showed consistently low results (p<0.05). Analysis of the prescription of the diet therapy in a situational task showed good and excellent results for all students of the main group. Conclusion. The interactive digital simulator has shown high efficiency in training future pediatricians. Clinical cases help develop practical skills and build professional competencies, including child nutrition issues.