  Background: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique
that combines principles of physics, math, and engineering to look inside
humans and animals, hence delivering a lifesaving technology. However,
resource-poor regions aiming to expand access to MRI suffer from a lack of
imaging expertise. Education of a new generation of MRI technicians and
researchers in these regions is needed to make this technology more equitable
and sustainable around the world. Results: We developed Virtual Scanner Games,
an open-source web application that allows students to explore fundamental
concepts in MRI. Four modules illustrated imaging basics, imaging biology,
imaging physics, and imaging design. Feedback was collected from high school
and early college students along with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and
doctoral students working in the field of MRI. Conclusions: We have shown a
collection of games that can be used independently by high school students and
people with no imaging background; they could also be used as demonstration
tools in formal courses. Further assessment of their educational value through
longer term usage is needed.
