This video presents MILES, a collaborative USC platform that uses a life-sized virtual human and classroom analytics to train clinicians in motivational interviewing for work with returning veterans and service members.
📊 Quick Facts
| Type | Interview |
| Author | Alexandre GAIN |
| Published | April 1, 2026 |
| Source | Visit Source |
| Location(s) | ERICSSON Social Center |
🖼️ Illustrations
📝 Abstract
[Summary generated by AI] The video introduces MILES (Motivational Interviewing Learning Environment and Simulation), a training platform developed through collaboration between military experts, the USC School of Social Work, and the USC Institute for Creative Technologies. The author outlines how MILES integrates a commercial game engine with research technologies to create “Mike Baker,” a life-sized, realistic virtual human designed to help clinicians practice evidence-based motivational interviewing with returning veterans and service members. The methods combine two synchronized learning modes: (1) a live, immersive virtual clinic in which a student converses with the virtual patient, and (2) a concurrent classroom experience where peers observe the session and select among three candidate clinician responses aligned with motivational interviewing principles. The person interviewed emphasizes ensuring the authenticity of the virtual patient’s scripting, tone, and mannerisms based on field experience with service members. Embedded analytics track learner choices to support formative feedback and instructor-led discussion, enabling assessment of alignment with best-practice techniques. The deliverables include the MILES platform, the virtual human agent, integrated performance tracking, and an instructional workflow aimed at scaling clinical competence for community mental health professionals working with veteran populations.