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Drug Calculations--The Video Game
AveryZoe
July 31, 2010
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ursing students having trouble grasping the difficult process of drug calculations will soon be able to game their way to proficiency. Drug calculations, which involves calculating the proper dosages for patients, is a complicated subject that requires complete mastery. However, some colleges have encountered up to a 50% failure rate for first time testers. The web-based studies group at the University of Stavanger has decided to develop a video game to make the process of learning drug calculations both more intuitive and fun.
Petter Mordt, leader of the project, feels that there are many ways to learn. The team believes that by utilizing the technique of "serious gaming" they can make
learning an easier process for the students, and make it fun at the same time. He states, "Some prefer more visual ways of learning instead of
text or mathematical formulas. I can see no reason why the instruction should not be fun." Although this game is not set to be launched to the students until fall, the team already has plans for bigger and better learning games, including one that deals with handling drugs.
It should be noted that the learning games are not intended to replace classroom teaching or any other part of the curriculum. Instead, they are meant to be used as a study for struggling students or those who just want a little more practice. Students enrolled in the online nursing will receive access to the game, which will be monitored by nursing professionals to ensure accuracy and quality.
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