Effect of augmented visual feedback from a virtual reality simulation system on manual dexterity training

Abstract

Little research has been published about the impact of simulation technology on the learning process of novel motor skills. Especially the role of augmented feedback (FB) on the quality of performance and the transfer of the acquired behaviour to a no-augmented FB condition require further investigation. Therefore, novice dental students were randomly assigned to one of three groups and given the task of drilling a geometrical class 1 cavity. The FB group trained under augmented visual FB conditions, provided by the virtual reality (VR) system (DentSim). The no-FB group practised under normal vision conditions, in the absence of augmented FB. A control group performed the test sessions without participating in any training programme. All preparations were evaluated by the VR grading system according to four traditional (outline shape, floor depth, floor smoothness and wall inclination), and two critical, criteria (pulp exposure and damage to adjacent teeth). Performance analyses revealed an overall trend towards significant improvement with training for the experimental groups. The FB group obtained the highest scores. It scored better for floor depth (P < 0.001), whilst the no-FB group was best for floor smoothness (P < 0.005). However, at the retention tests, the FB group demonstrated inferior performance in comparison with the no-FB group. The transfer test on a traditional unit revealed no significant differences between the training groups. Consequently, drilling experience on a VR system under the condition of frequently provided FB and lack of any tutorial input was considered to be not beneficial to learning. The present data are discussed in view of the guidance hypothesis of FB, which refers to the apprentice's dependence on FB.

Haptic Virtual Reality for Skill Acquisition in Endodontics

“…As in a previous study (7), the novice users in this study showed a significant reduction in task completion time (T) after the training sessions. Remarkably, their learning curves for the time score showed that they achieved a drastic time reduction with only a few training sessions.…”

Effect of reducing frequency of augmented feedback on manual dexterity training and its retention

“…This result was in agreement with our previous findings. Wierinck et al 6,7 found that floor smoothness' performance was enhanced by a fluent preparation technique and a reduced preparation time, a typical control group's strategy. More importantly, reducing the relative frequency of feedback during acquisition produced no differential effects on retention testing.…”

“…The faster dexterity build-up may have a beneficial influence on the attitude of the dentist towards assimilation of new skills. Wierinck et al 6 showed that manual dexterity training on such a simulator resulted in enhanced performance during acquisition. When feedback was withdrawn, however, performance deteriorated, indicative for feedback dependency.…”

A laboratory training and evaluation technique for computer‐aided oral implant surgery

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