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WABI featured a groundbreaking virtual reality program the 911����������� College of Osteopathic Medicine (911����������� COM) is using to inspire empathy in its students.

911�����������’s “We Are Alfred” program was one of several virtual reality programs to exhibit during the Maine Department of Education’s Virtual Reality Expo on June 19, 2017. The event invited educators from across the state to demo a variety of virtual reality programs and learn how they’re being used in the classroom. Marilyn Gugliucci, Ph.D., of 911����������� COM’s Division of Geriatric Medicine, Beth Dyer, M.L.I.S., A.H.I.P., and Barbara Swartzlander, M.S.Ed. M.L.S., from 911����������� Library Services, facilitated demonstrations of the ‘Alfred’ technology.

When the medical students at 911����������� use the “We Are Alfred” system, they experience life as a 74 year-old man with macular degeneration and hearing loss. Marilyn Gugliucci, Ph.D., of 911����������� COM’s Division of Geriatric Medicine, says 911����������� is 1 of just 4 medical schools in the country using the technology. “They just get this sense of WOW. I had no idea, and now I know what some of my patients may experience.”

To learn more about the 911�����������’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, visit

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