Appendix A: Terminology

Terminology
Terminology Definition
Terminology Digital technologies Definition

Digital technologies are electronic tools, systems, devices, and resources that generate, store or process data.

In health and care this includes tools such as wearables, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics.

In education, this includes virtual learning environments (VLE), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), augmented reality (AR) and other simulation and immersive technologies.
Terminology Digital Literacy Definition Digital platforms are any electronic tool for communication including desktop, mobile, social and email software.
Terminology Wearables Definition Any kind of electronic device designed to be worn on the user’s body.
Terminology Artificial Intelligence (AI) Definition

The development of systems able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence such as speech recognition, decision-making and visual perception.

Terminology Automation Definition The application of technology and programmes to achieve outcomes with minimal human input such as sending text messages to patients reminding them of upcoming appointments.
Terminology Robotics Definition Technology that involves the conception, design, manufacture, and operation of robots such as robot-assisted surgery.
Terminology Virtual learning environments (VLE) Definition A virtual learning environment in educational technology is a web-based platform for the digital aspects of courses or programmes, usually within educational institutions.
Terminology Virtual reality (VR) Definition Virtual reality is a computer-generated environment with scenes and objects that appear to be real, making the user feel they are immersed in their surroundings.
Terminology Mixed reality (MR) Definition Mixed reality is a term used to describe the merging of a real-world environment and a computer-generated one such as the use of 3-dimensional projections and simulations in lectures.
Terminology Augmented reality (AR) Definition Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with the user’s environment in real time such as virtual surgeries.
Terminology Information governance (IG) Definition Information governance (IG) is a term used to describe how information is used. It covers system and process management, records management, data quality, data protection and the controls needed to ensure information sharing is secure and confidential.
Terminology Undergraduate Definition A university student who has not yet taken a first degree.
Terminology Postgraduate Definition A university student taking a course of study after completing a first degree.
Terminology Pre-registration Definition A university student taking a course of study leading to clinical registration. This can be at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Page last reviewed: 11 May 2023
Next review due: 11 May 2024