While theory can be studied in the classroom, in the library, or even at home, the skills involved must be learned by doing. Students have a limited amount of clinical time in which to learn and master a growing variety of skills. New tools which allow students to practice these skills outside of the traditional clinical setting are clearly needed. Technology plays a key role in this vision. It is commonly believed that computers can be used to effectively develop student understanding and individualize instruction.
Computers make it possible to simulate complex systems with many interrelated functions.
Graphical user interfaces make it possible, with careful design, to provide a realistic interpretation of the look and feel of the system being modeled. Computers provide the ideal platform for interactive tutorials designed to teach procedures which involve a clearly definable and logical sequence of events. Simulators and interactive tutorials are currently being used successfully to teach a variety of skills in medicine and the allied health professions. As personal computers continue to become more commonplace the availability of simulators and interactive tutorials will continue to grow. Promoting student creativity Providing experiences which enable students to discover concepts for themselves .