Genomics Training Academy launches virtual reality programme
NHS Genomic Laboratory Hubs are now equipped with VR headsets
Marking a significant milestone in genomics education within the NHS, the Genomics Training Academy (GTAC) has introduced a virtual reality (VR) laboratory training package. All seven Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLHs) have received state-of-the-art VR headsets loaded with a suite of GTAC educational resources.
Immersive introductions
GTAC practice educators are on-site at each GLH to facilitate learners using the VR packages. At present, eight modules are available on all the headsets. More GTAC resources will be developed for phase two of the VR roll-out. We recently heard from some of the GLH learners about what they think of this exciting new way to learn about genomic laboratory techniques.
“As someone who has not yet worked in the lab, viewing various laboratory procedures in VR really does help me feel like I’m actually there,” said a first-year Scientist Training Programme (STP) trainee. Another learner “found the VR session particularly valuable in deepening my understanding of FFPE DNA extraction”, while another remarked: “The video is well made, and the script has a good level of detail and goes at a pace that enables viewers to follow it, but it’s not so slow that it becomes tedious.”
Hybrid learning through VR
The education package is not designed to fully replace traditional training, but to supplement and support it. This set of VR modules covers essential laboratory techniques and procedures, giving participants realistic experiences and the opportunity to gain confidence in their skills. Because of the immersive nature of the VR package, educators can equip learners more efficiently. As one STP trainee put it: “This is so cool – lab observations without needing to get in the way in the lab!”
Presently, the ‘Virtual reality: inside the lab’ modules cover:
- Massively parallel sequencing (also known as next-generation sequencing)
- Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA)
- Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD)
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- Nucleic acid extraction from FFPE tissue
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Preparation of samples for cytogenetic analysis
- Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarra
The GTAC initiative
The GTAC is a national initiative led by NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme (GEP) and Genomics Unit. It exists to upskill the specialist genomics workforce of the NHS. The VR programme is a key component of GTAC’s ‘hub and spoke’ model, which combines a central virtual education hub with hands-on training at regional locations.
Professor Kate Tatton-Brown, the clinical director and head of the GEP, commented on the launch: “The introduction of VR training across all Genomic Laboratory Hubs represents a significant leap forward in our aim to upskill and expand the genomics workforce of the NHS. This technology allows us to provide consistent, high-quality training experiences regardless of geographical location.”
The VR programme is part of a broader suite of the GTAC’s educational resources designed to meet the evolving needs of the specialist genomics workforce. As the field of genomic medicine continues to advance rapidly, the NHS is committed to ensuring professionals have access to up-to-date and effective training.
Read about the GTAC here or contact the team for more information.
