A qualitative model for computer-assisted instruction in cardiology.

CARDIOLAB is an interactive computational framework dedicated to teaching and computer-aided diagnosis in cardiology. The framework embodies models that simulate the heart's electrical activity. They constitute the core of a Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) program intended to teach, in a multimedia environment, the concepts underlying rhythmic disorders and cardiac diseases. The framework includes a qualitative model (QM) which is described in this paper. During simulation using QM, dynamic sequences representing impulse formation and conduction processes are produced along with the corresponding qualitative descriptions. The corresponding electrocardiogram (ECG) and ladder diagram are also produced, and thus, both qualitative notions and quantitative facts can be taught via the model. We discuss how qualitative models in particular, and computational models in general can enhance the teaching capability of CAI programs.