Exploring the Value of Simulations in Plant Health in the Developing World.

There is a growing opportunity to deliver mobile technology-based training on the diagnosis of plant health problems and to explore experiential learning through simulation in the developing world. Solving knowledge problems in plant health en masse would have a vast impact on global food security. "Plant Doctor Simulator" is an android tablet-mounted 3D modelling simulation to enhance and measure the diagnostic skills of plant health workers. The 3D models simulate symptoms of plant pest and disease problems on a variety of crop plants, and the game play data is stored in a web portal for analysis. Early stage testing results indicate that plant health advisors in the developing world are receptive to tablet-based simulation as part of a learning and teaching program. When evaluated as a diagnostic competency assessment tool, performance in Plant Doctor Simulator was found to be correlated to performance on a traditional written exam; however, further study is required to better understand the reliability and validity of the tool. Learning effects of the simulation are not yet conclusively investigated.