Towards a new generation of simulation models in public health education

Abstract

This article sets the scene for the development of an educational simulation software package based on multimedia, decision support systems, risk estimates, project outcomes and evaluation. It begins by looking at the history and current use of educational software and its application to the education of public health professionals. Then, it previews accompanying technological advances that were essential precursors to the facilities now available and reviews learning theories relevant to the development of problem solving simulation models. Possible candidates for providing more effective educational solutions, such as decision support systems, modelling and simulation software are reviewed and the design of a new generation, fully integrated simulation model is discussed.