"Gamify" your EMT class studying
Try these new ways of training your students
By Greg Friese
Training chiefs often tell me, "My personnel are way into computer games. In any downtime, they are playing games on their phones, tablets, laptops, or the Xbox in the dayroom. You need to make training more like a computer game."
Have you considered applying the concept of "gamification" — turning an everyday activity into a game — to your EMT class studying or refresher training? These are some of my ideas to gamify your EMS education:
1. Use a case-based approach, but with an 86-year-old princess that had a snycopal episode. Level 1 for the case is the anatomy and physiology relevant to her complaint, which also includes review and testing of relevant medical terminology.
Level 2 is assessment of the patient. Your patient assessment skills are like the up, forward, back, jump, and crouch moves for your character. Perform skills correctly to advance. Can you apply any advanced moves during assessment? Level 3 is applying the proper treatments for the problem based on your protocols. Level 4 is the same problem but with a twist &m dash; an unexpected villain or complication.
2. Draw maps for common medical problems. At the center of the map is the problem name. Draw paths out from the problem for causes, anatomy and physiology, signs and symptoms, and treatments. Add links to online articles and videos about the problem. Draw connections to paths that radiate from other problems. Remember, when drawing maps, much like when assessing a patient, to avoid dead end paths. Concept mapping was discussed recently on episode 150 of the EMSEduCast podcast.
3. Create metrics with rewards for your reading and practice quizzes. Set a goal to read without interruption for 10 minutes. Reward yourself with a quick peek at EMS1 on Facebook. Gradually lengthen the time you read without interruption with an eventual goal of 30 minutes. Come up with rewards for your 5th medical patient assessment, 25th splint application in the lab, and 50th blood pressure check of classmates, friends, and family.
4. Declare victory when a chapter is complete. If you completed all the assignments and passed the chapter test declare victory, high five your classmates, and dust yourself off before starting the next chapter.
5. Power up for effective game play. Earn bonus hours of studying by taking short breaks for healthy snacks like fresh fruit and vegetables. Start each study session with maximum life force by getting regular and plentiful sleep. Combine studying with at least 30 minutes of exercise every day.
I haven't done much gaming since the days of guiding Pitfall Harry through the jungle on my Atari 2600 and now play Wii Mario Brothers infrequently with my kids. Share your better ideas to gamify your EMS education in the comments.
Finally, there are no hacks, secret key combinations, or hidden doors in EMT class. The only way you get to the finish is to understand the course requirements and do the work!