Publication
FunduScope: a human-centered, machine learning-based interactive tool for training junior ophthalmologists in diabetic retinopathy detection
Sara-Jane Bittner; Michael Barz; Daniel Sonntag
In: Frontiers in Big Data, Vol. Volume 9 - 2026, Pages 1-14, Frontiers Media SA, 3/2026.
Abstract
Interpreting fundus images is an essential skill for detecting eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), one of the leading causes of visual impairment. However, the training of junior doctors relies on experienced ophthalmologists, who often lack the time for teaching, or on printed training materials that lack variability in examples. In this work, we present FunduScope, an interactive human-centered learning tool for training junior ophthalmologists, which is based on a pre-trained ML model for classifying DR. In a qualitative pre-study, we investigated the needs of junior doctors and identified gaps in recent learning procedures. In the main mixed-methods study, we examined the experience of 10 junior doctors with the tool and its impact on cognitive load, usability, and additional factors relevant to e-learning tools. Despite technical constraints our results confirm the potential of using an ML-based learning tool in medical education, addressing the time constraints of ophthalmologists, and providing learning independence for junior doctors. However, future work could extend the learning tool by using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to further support the clinical decision making of learners and exceeding the scope of this proof of concept to other ophthalmic diseases.