ABSTRACT VIEW
HYBRID TEACHING MODEL TO LEARN HUMAN MODELING, PROCESSING AND SIMULATION FOR UNDERGRADUATES IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
B. García-Zapirain, A. Méndez-Zorrilla, Z. Hameed, A. Guerrero-Tamayo
University of Deusto - eVIDA (SPAIN)
The subject 'Human Modeling, Processing, and Simulation' forms part of the curriculum for students studying for a degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Deusto. The teaching strategy for the subject is hybrid, combining virtual sessions and online Maser classes with face-to-face sessions in the laboratory and an assessment based on a project. This methodology allows students to access theoretical material and carry out practical activities in a flexible way, optimizing learning and the application of concepts in both virtual and physical environments. On the one hand, this methodology allows students to access theoretical material from both local and international experts who will explain theoretical concepts as well as case studies in different areas using a virtual platform. On the other hand, it allows them to carry out practical activities in a flexible and in person way using the BIOTECH laboratory and its equipment.

The theoretical content is taught using 'Virtual Masterclasses' with the strategy of international co-teaching, where experts from different universities and research centers share with the students the different contents of the latest trends in 'Human Modeling, Processing, and Simulation'. This type of international co-teaching has been organized in two ways. The first, thematic areas, where each teacher gives four sessions to cover both basic concepts and case studies. And second, single-session Master Classes dedicated to an innovative and original topic.

The practical content is taught in BIOTECH laboratory that has numerous devices that offer a comprehensive solution for human modeling and simulation. For instance, Perception Neuron Studio is an advanced software platform paired with inertial measurement units (IMUs) designed to capture and animate human movement. The Perception Neuron IMUs have accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to track the real-time movements of humans. It assists in studying human motion for sports science, medical research, and rehabilitation purposes. Similarly, Shimmer Consensys software paired with IMUs provides detailed motion-tracking capabilities to study gait, joint angles, posture, or rehabilitation progress. The Shimmer IMUs come with integrated 9 degrees of freedom that combine three-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to track orientation, acceleration, and angular velocity.

The case study methodology based on International Master classes is really inspiring for students. The spirit of this firsthand knowledge of innovative solutions fosters creativity as a driver of future innovative projects. As an example, we offer our students the opportunity to engage with NASA scientists and engineers on the latest aerospace research applied to human behaviour. Topics include unresolved issues like the effects of long-term space stays on the human body, such as muscle and bone loss, the miscalibration of accelerometers in the eyes, ears, and skin (calibrated to 1G by default), and the impact of high pressures during launch and re-entry.

In conclusion, the use of hybrid methodologies of remote virtual classes, with face-to-face sessions in the laboratory, has allowed us to develop an evaluation based on a final project that has demonstrated the acquisition of the competences assigned to the subject in an optimal way and with the satisfaction of the students.

Keywords: Technology, hybrid approach, biomedical engineering, undergraduate education.

Event: EDULEARN25
Session: Pedagogical Innovations in Education
Session time: Tuesday, 1st of July from 15:00 to 18:45
Session type: POSTER