Aplicacion del metaverso como tecnica de aprendizaje en el grado de odontologia. Estudio preliminar

Introduction: The metaverse is an interactive 3D environment generated by a computer, in which human beings are represented by avatars that can interact with each other and with system software. In reference to the models and characteristics of the metaverse, we can understand it as the convergence of a virtually augmented physical reality in a physically persistent virtual space. The usefulness of the metaverse is mainly linked to digital native users. Hypothesis: Knowledge of the metaverse as a teaching tool will provide a higher level of mental rotation of the spatial intelligence of dentistry students, evaluated through a multiple Survey and the Vandenberg Mental Rotation Test. Objective: To establish to what extent knowledge of the metaverse influences the level of the mental rotation factor of spatial intelligence in dentistry students. Methods: Through a multiple Survey, information will be obtained regarding the knowledge or previous use that dental university students have about virtual technology in 3D and especially the metaverse, to then perform the Vandenberg Mental Rotation Test to determine their spatial intelligence. Results: 42% of the students surveyed said they had a high level of knowledge about the Metaverse. There is an association between the type of response in the Wandenberg Mental Rotation Test and the course of the Dentistry degree. Discussion: The ADEMA University School, after a partial immersive activity through haptic and holographic simulators, opens a future of no return towards a total immersion through the metaverse. The metaverse stimulates students with learning disabilities and knowing it has a positive effect on spatial intelligence. We must make the student the true protagonist of the learning process through the metaverse, a learning that is no longer "delivered" but "created".