wStikk – Web-based Phlebotomy Learning

Biomedical Laboratory Science (BLS) students need to learn and train several practical procedures. A web-based virtual reality application, wStikk, was developed to support training and learning of venous blood sampling, an activity that will become a crucial part of their working lives. wStikk aims to facilitate high proficiency learning by playing, using examples, and guidance from associated theories as well as videos from real-life. The aim of this paper is to show hands-on experience from teachers and students about blended learning in phlebotomy and the role of the technologies supporting such learning and training. Data comes from an experimental study where three teachers and six students, three beginners and three experienced in phlebotomy, performed the application twice and were interviewed afterward. Results show a positive attitude towards the use of such an application in the study program, while also pointing out possible pitfalls and improvements for more robust and long-time use.