The portfolio of Michele L. Spotts

UX & Learning Research

Throughout my tenure at Drexel University, a prominent research institution, I actively engaged in diverse research projects, significantly influencing my decision to pursue a doctoral degree in education at the University of Virginia's School of Education and Human Development. My current research revolves around the impact of using AI-based training in digital healthcare simulation applications on cognitive load and knowledge transfer in implicit bias training for medical students. Presented below is a select list of past projects I have contributed to.

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Sim DB - A mobile healthcare debriefing app

I actively contributed to conceptualizing and developing a healthcare debriefing mobile app. The project initially focused on transferring knowledge to a cohort of 40 emergency medicine residents who observed a smaller group of 5 residents engaging in medical simulations.

To test the efficacy of the app concept, we employed an innovative approach using a beachball. The simulation faculty facilitated an extensive group debriefing session by randomly passing the ball among the 45 residents, including the observers and participants. Knowledge transfer was assessed immediately after the session and again after three months. Remarkably, the study revealed no significant difference in knowledge transfer between the participants and observers.

Building upon these promising findings, we proceeded to storyboard the mobile app's user interface (UI) design and received funding through a prestigious Coulter Grant dedicated to supporting healthcare innovations. The app is a valuable resource for novice debriefers, guiding them through the complexities of healthcare debriefing. By providing step-by-step assistance and addressing the challenging aspects of the process, the app empowers users to enhance their debriefing skills and improve the overall quality of healthcare education and practice.

This project exemplifies my dedication to advancing healthcare education and leveraging technology to facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development. It is a testament to the transformative potential of innovative solutions in healthcare debriefing, backed by robust research and awarded funding to realize its full potential.

QlassActive Web App

Through participating in the National Science Foundation's iCorps program, I engaged in a comprehensive market research initiative for the simulation debriefing app. Through a series of qualitative interviews, we diligently assessed the demand and market potential of the app. Buoyed by identified need, we developed a mobile app to foster oral participation in traditional classroom settings.

After conducting additional research during my first year as a student in the University of Virginia's doctorate in education program, I further developed the idea to create an app to alleviate the fear and apprehension of speaking out loud in a classroom environment. Providing a supportive platform empowers students to overcome their inhibitions and actively engage in discussions and collaborative activities to reach the highest level of learning. In doing so, it promotes inclusivity and fairness by eliminating biases in student selection for participation.

This innovative solution represents a significant stride towards creating a more equitable and inclusive learning environment across various educational contexts, including K-12, higher education, and corporate training. By harnessing technology to facilitate active participation, the app enhances student engagement and enriches the overall educational experience.

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