Web 2.0 and 3.0 affordances for second generation virtual patients

In a recent critical review, Cook and Triola (2009) suggest serious limitations for training via virtual patients. Questioning these conclusions, this paper explores what advanced technologies might offer. The methodology involved a resource analysis to determine Web 2.0 and Web 3.0 affordances of Second Life, in the context of second generation virtual patients (VP2s), understood as simulated patients in 3D clinical scenarios. The paper compares implications across virtual patients, standardised patients and human patient simulators. Results support the argument that VP2s in Second Life could be used to train many aspects of medical competencies and that Second Life affordances of representation, social connectivity and contextualised design could raise the profile of virtual patients on the competency achievement continuum.