Metaverse, XR, and Next-Generation Medical Training

Context
The digital transformation of medical education is accelerating through immersive technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (XR). These tools provide safe, scalable, and engaging environments for skill acquisition, simulation-based learning, and interprofessional training. This project investigates how the metaverse and XR platforms can be designed and implemented to shape the future of medical training.
Research Objectives

• Immersive Learning Environments: Develop XR-based simulations for procedural and communication skills.
• Cognitive & Psychological Impact: Assess learner engagement, memory retention, and stress management in XR-based training.
• Design & Accessibility: Explore UI/UX strategies for equitable and inclusive adoption of immersive medical education platforms.
• Metaverse Integration: Prototype multi-user, collaborative training environments within virtual campuses.

Programs & Tools Students Can Use

• XR Development Engines: Unity 3D (C#), Unreal Engine (C++) for VR/AR/MR applications.
• 3D Design Tools: Blender, Autodesk Maya, or 3ds Max for modelling medical training scenarios.
• XR SDKs & Toolkits: XR Interaction Toolkit (Unity), OpenXR, VRTK for rapid prototyping.
• Analytics & Evaluation: Eye-tracking (Tobii), Unity Analytics, and survey-based tools for cognitive/UX assessment.

Expected Outcomes

• Prototype XR modules for selected medical scenarios (e.g., surgery, emergency response, nursing practice).
• Usability study comparing XR-based training against traditional learning methods.
• Publication-ready results on immersive learning effectiveness in medical education.

Student Gains
Students will acquire hands-on skills in VR/AR/XR development, Unity/Unreal programming, 3D modelling, and immersive UX design. They will also practice evaluating user studies and analyzing cognitive outcomes of XR learning environments.
Requirement
Basic programming skills in Unity (C#) or Unreal Engine (C++) are preferred. Prior exposure to XR/VR development, 3D modeling (e.g., Blender), or UX testing is desirable.
Related Areas
[Computer Science and Engineering, Robotics and Mechatronics, Visual Arts and Communication Design, Psychology and Cognitive Science, Medical Education]
Application Process (Final Note):
You should prepare:
Latest Academic Transcript (official or system-generated PDF from your student portal)
1-page Letter of Interest explaining:

• why you are interested in the project,
• any prior experience (coursework, projects, internships),
• how you want to contribute (e.g., technical development, policy analysis, data science).

After you complete your online application, email the documents above to polat.goktas@sabanciuniv.edu with the chosen Project Name in the subject line.