CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction) System for Arrhythmia by Using a Simulation Model of Impulse Formation and Conduction System of the Heart

A CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction) system using a personal computer has been developed with the object of assisting the students to acquire the ability to undertake logical diagnosis of complicated cases of arrhythmia. A simulation method with a model of the impulse formation and conduction system of the heart, which we have made, is used in this CAI system. A simulated arrhythmia (ECG pattern) is given on a CRT display unit with simulated series of action potential of four pacemaker centers and the “ladder diagram” of impulse formation and conduction, which shows the mechanism of that arrhythmia. As learning takes place by following indications in dialogue style in Japanese, even students unfamiliar with computer operation can utilize this CAI system without trouble. This system has three learning modes. The first mode is for acquiring of fundamental knowledge concerning the anatomy and electrophysiological properties of the impulse formation and conduction system of the heart. The second is the mode in which students can learn ECG patterns and mechanisms of 23 common cases of arrhythmia as well as the effects of autonomic nerve stimulation and of various drugs on these arrhythmia cases by the simulation method. The third is the mode in which students can advance their knowledge of arrhythmia in the process of simulating desired cases of arrhythmia by the trial-and-error method with changing parameters and irregularities given to the simulation model. Using this CAI system, students can learn about arrhythmia efficiently and interestedly.