SCF enhances its AI mannequin skills laboratory.

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Health education is getting a significant upgrade thanks to artificial intelligence.

The State College of Florida (SCF) is broadening its Artificial Intelligence Sim Lab Program to two additional campuses in the Tampa Bay area. Students will be able to access this innovative technology starting this fall at its Venice and Bradenton locations.

Stephen Brelsford, the Simulation & Nursing Communication Coordinator at SCF’s Manatee-Sarasota location for the past four years, highlights the program’s integration of AI technology within its mannequins for teaching nursing students.

“He can sweat, he can cry, he can do all sorts of things,” Brelsford stated. “With both verbal communication skills and hands-on experiential training, this provides students with a comprehensive perspective of hospital scenarios,” he added.

The program’s appeal is evident, with this semester witnessing nearly a 20% increase in student enrollment compared to the previous fall.

Director of Simulation Debbie Allish emphasizes the initiative’s primary aim—to enhance students’ knowledge. “AI is vital for our students, especially with these mannequins, as it allows for more realistic patient interaction. Unlike traditional mannequins, this one can converse because it’s programmed with responses,” she explained.

The advanced mannequin is capable of simulating diverse scenarios, including seizures, and can move its eyes, mouth, face, and body. While it operates autonomously, it can also be manually controlled during training sessions.

“Faculty oversee the operation of the simulators during scenarios and assess students using our camera system,” Brelsford noted.

As students grow more accustomed to this cutting-edge technology, Brelsford hopes it will foster greater confidence in real patient interactions once they graduate.