When college and university educators learn of the newest technology, they often look for ways to incorporate it into their existing courses with the hope that it will provide their students with deeper insight into the subject matter. For example, virtual reality gives anatomy students the ability to examine the human body without the need for an anatomy lab. AI or artificial intelligence also has significant potential to enhance learning activities and support educators.
However, not every new technology meets the needs of every higher education setting. How can you determine if that new tech will work for your curriculum?
Joshua Owolabi, PhD, FAcadMEd, an associate professor at PCOM South Georgia, recently developed the ASIC (Adaptation, Standardization, Integration, and Compliance) Framework to determine the appropriateness of new technology. He based this 10-step approach on educational theories and his own experience as a medical educator.
The journal Cureus recently featured an article about Dr. Owolabi's ASIC Framework, which also received a probationary patent.
“I want educators to understand that just because a technology is brand new and interesting does not mean that it will necessarily work in a particular educational environment,” he explained. “Using ASIC will help educators decide whether a new technology is the right fit.”
Dr. Owolabi should know. In his work at PCOM South Georgia, he teaches anatomy, neuroscience, histology, embryology and related basic medical science subjects to osteopathic medicine and biomedical sciences students.
In 2019, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a premier osteopathic medical school established in 1899, extended its commitment to the Southeast by establishing PCOM South Georgia. An additional teaching location in Moultrie, Georgia, PCOM South Georgia offers both a full, four-year medical program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. PCOM is a private, not-for-profit institution that trains professionals in the health and behavioral sciences fields. Joining PCOM Georgia in Suwanee in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state, PCOM South Georgia focuses on educating physicians for the region. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 229-668-3110.
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