Augmented Realities in Clinical MedEd
Joshua O. Owolabi · 2025
This chapter, “Augmented Realities in Clinical MedEd,” explores the transformative potential of augmented reality (AR) in clinical education through a comprehensive examination of its principles and practical applications. It begins by outlining the foundational principles of AR and its integration into clinical learning environments, followed by a balanced analysis of the technical, educational, and trainee-specific factors that influence its adoption. Key curricular and assessment considerations are discussed, emphasizing alignment with learning objectives and competency standards. The chapter extends to mixed reality (MR) and extended reality (XR), providing principles and guidelines for their effective deployment in clinical contexts. Quality assurance for AR, MR, and XR designs is highlighted, alongside emerging trends and infrastructure requirements for immersive technology in medical education. Debriefing, feedback mechanisms, and evaluation frameworks are underscored as vital components for ensuring the efficacy of AR-based activities, including the use of rubrics and thresholds for impact assessment. Finally, practical strategies for implementing AR in clinical education and its alignment with the hierarchies of competence are explored, offering insights into sustainable change and future advancements in the field.