A Study on the Development and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Education from the Perspective of the Metaverse

Abstract

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) education plays a crucial role in advancing the construction of a Healthy China and the innovative development of TCM heritage. However, it currently faces challenges such as a lack of immersive experiences in online education, a disconnect between theory and practice, and the neglect of the study of classical TCM texts. The metaverse presents new opportunities for the transformation and growth of TCM education. It embodies three primary features: immersive experiences, novel technological integration, and the convergence of the virtual and the real, providing a fertile ground for empowering TCM education and fostering imaginative possibilities. In this context, we propose an architecture for TCM education in the metaverse and the coexisting application scenarios of the metaverse within TCM education. These scenarios encompass the use of virtual classrooms and virtual libraries. Additionally, we elaborate on the challenges that lie ahead in this transformative journey.