Using Immersive Virtual Reality to Promote Skill Development Among Master of Nursing Students

Abstract : Background & aim
Students in graduate education programs require opportunities to develop and enact skills to prepare them for the transition to practice. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) is a type of virtual reality-based simulation where students are immersed into a computer-based, 3D scenario where they must assess and respond to real-world situations. While IVR has been recently examined in higher education, use of IVR to promote the development of skills such as conflict resolution and interviewing has not been well explored in nursing literature. The aim of this study was to pilot test two IVR simulations intended to promote the development of conflict resolution and interviewing skills among Master of Nursing (MN) students.

Methods
A quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design was used to assess IVR simulations. Prior to engaging in IVR simulations, participants completed a brief survey including a conflict resolution or interviewing self-efficacy scale and an adapted version of the extended Technology Acceptance Model. Upon completion of the simulations, participants responded to a second version of the survey. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests.

Results & Conclusion
Six students participated in the IVR simulations. Given the small sample, the true impact of IVR on the development of conflict resolution and interviewing skills remains unknown. While there were no statistically significant changes in perceived self-efficacy for conflict resolution or interviewing, students’ scores for overall acceptance of VR for learning increased following the simulations (p = 0.002). This suggests that IVR for skill development in MN programs may warrant further exploration.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Students in graduate education programs require opportunities to develop and enact skills to prepare them for transition to practice. Learn more about two immersive virtual reality simulations that were pilot tested in a Master of Nursing program. Participants completed one of two simulations focused on conflict resolution or interview skills, evaluated using a pretest and posttest design. Results from this project may inform future use of IVR in nursing programs.