What is Z-Book?
Z-Book uses a new didactic and technical approach that enables a completely new conception of learning materials and books. As an interactive tool, Z-Book is designed to give teachers and learners more options in distance learning and to enable a better learning experience and efficient learning.
Z-Book’s didactic approach is based on mapping information using zooming and layering technology. Increased cognitive functions are provided by visualizing the content and its structure, splitting the text and arranging it in small text boxes around the images, and a variety of different types of images: schematic representation or idealized graphic objects, multiple 2D images displayed in 3D, 3D images, and 3D printed organs. The visualization of hierarchical structures provides a more efficient method for structured learning than the traditional linear method as used in common textbooks.
Thus, a Z-Book can integrate e-learning features, multimedia content (video, audio, 3D models) and embedded applications such as virtual radiology and 3D printing.
Our tasks at Z-Book
Within the framework of this project, Inova DE GmbH is specifically responsible for the development of the software that enables training in virtual radiology. Also included in this software is the possibility of printed segmented organs using 3D printers. Thus, this is a main component of Z-Book.
Goals of the project
The Z-book project aims to develop the specific blended learning structures of the UKHD for future university operation in such a way that authors, editors and professors can independently create and publish the learning concept and learning books with the help of Z-Book. The aim is to continuously adapt the learning concept according to the scientific validation of learning efficiency compared to traditional methods and books.
It has been specially designed for use in very complex areas such as human anatomy. Thus, in order to learn you no longer have to constantly jump back and forth between structures and concepts, and you also get a direct overview of the entire organ with the 3D printed models.
So there should be a linking of a non-linear online book with the desktop app and images, graphics and animations. Thus Z-Book shall become a one-stop-shop solution for interactive and blended learning, offering advantages for students, professors and editors (authors) and thus find use in everyday teaching at the university.
Methods
The Z-Book project will be developed using agile methods in smaller sprints (1-3 month development cycles). Among others, design specialists will be involved in the process. The end result of the product is defined based on user stories or use cases. The results are validated in consultation with the peer groups (students from the different semesters), especially with regard to usability. Suggestions for changes are to form the basis for the next sprint. Ultimately, an organ print software is to be provided for training in a virtual radiology. It should be possible to export 3D prints of segmented organs.
Period
The project will last from October 2020 until September 2023.
