HEMAVID: A Flexible Computer-Based Interactive Video Resource for Hematology

Abstract This paper describes the design and development of HEMAVID, a computer-based interactive video (CBIV) resource for hematology. HEMAVID is a PC-based program that builds and maintains a versatile object-oriented database that indexes a collection of hematology slides residing on videodisc. Access to the database is flexible, allowing its use as: (1) an interactive visual reference, (2) a nucleus for the development and presentation of computer-aided instruction (CAI), and (3) image content in patient simulations. Each image in HEMAVID is associated with expert description, a prerequisite for the program's primary target population of medical students. Research fellows and physicians should also find it an effective resource for hematology review. To that end, the program incorporates an intuitive user interface; controlling the program requires only a “mouse” as a pointing device. HEMAVID's integration of expert knowledge and video imaging technology provides a unique alternative to traditional methods of teaching and reviewing hematological morphology.