Cami Trendy
Research Mentor: Vitaliy Popov
Mentor Department: Department of Learning Health Sciences, Medicine
Author(s): Vitaliy Popov, Cami Trendy, Umair Syed
Session: Session 3 (11:00 AM – 11:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 78
Abstract
This project explores the impact of adaptive scaffolding on behavioral patterns during high-stakes clinical events, using virtual reality (VR) simulations of in-hospital cardiac arrest management with clinicians. Teams of four clinicians participated in VR-based cardiac arrest scenarios, guided by iACLS protocols, with scaffolds delivered either in response to errors (error-triggered) or at predetermined intervals (static). Incorrect clinical actions, such as interruption of CPR, administration of inappropriate medications, or misuse of defibrillation settings, prompted scaffold delivery. Team behavior was assessed using a rubric that evaluated scaffold timing, prompt type, team response, repetition of errors, and behavioral adaptation. Cognitive load was then evaluated using physiological indicators—gaze tracking, pupillary dilation, heart rate, and blink rate—and analyzed through a composite cognitive load index within time windows before and after scaffolds. Changes in cognitive load were examined to determine the effects of scaffolding on learner performance. Results highlight the significance of scaffold design and timing in managing cognitive load and improving team performance under stress. Thoughtfully implemented adaptive scaffolding in VR simulations enhances clinician learning and supports the development of effective team-based training systems.
