Effects of a Computer-Based Community Health Nursing Virtual Reality Simulation on Postlicensure Nursing Students

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality simulation in postlicensure nursing education, including community health, is an emerging instructional approach, and more research is needed on its effectiveness. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative, computer-based community health nursing virtual reality simulation among postlicensure nursing students. Method: This mixed methods study consisted of 67 postlicensure community health nursing students who completed a pretest, computer-based virtual reality simulation, and a posttest and evaluation. Results: The majority of participant scores increased from pretest to posttest, and most participants agreed that the computer-based virtual reality simulation was effective; new knowledge and skills learned, the material that was found to be most helpful, and benefits to nursing practice were identified. Conclusion: This community health nursing computer-based virtual reality simulation was effective at increasing participants' knowledge and confidence with learning. [ J Contin Educ Nurs. 2023;54(3):109–116.]

Development of an Interactive 3D Visualization Tutorial for Pathophysiology in Graduate Nursing Education

“…8,9,12,14,15,[19][20][21] Studies consistently show that integrating AR and VR into health care education improves students' understanding of, and their spatial orientation of, anatomical relationships. 14,15,20,21 Students also have significantly higher grades when anatomically correct AR body images are incorporated into classroom learning. 15 It also increases students' attentional span, encourages students to ask questions, and facilitates discussions through the interaction with learning models.…”

“…The application of AR and VR using 3D visualization pedagogical tutorials have expanded with the rapid evolution of digital technology in the last decade and show promise in advancing knowledge within nursing programs 10. Interactive visualization tutorials that are created in 3D AR or VR are more effective in cognitive learning outcomes, improving psychomotor skills, and gaining a higher motivation in learners than a script-based approach in education 8,9,12,14,15,19-21. Studies consistently show that integrating AR and VR into health care education improves students’ understanding of, and their spatial orientation of, anatomical relationships 14,15,20,21.…”

“…Interactive visualization tutorials that are created in 3D AR or VR are more effective in cognitive learning outcomes, improving psychomotor skills, and gaining a higher motivation in learners than a script-based approach in education 8,9,12,14,15,19-21. Studies consistently show that integrating AR and VR into health care education improves students’ understanding of, and their spatial orientation of, anatomical relationships 14,15,20,21. Students also have significantly higher grades when anatomically correct AR body images are incorporated into classroom learning 15.…”

“…7 Engaging students in active learning strategies through the application of digital technology can improve comprehension, develop long-term recall, and strengthens problem-solving skills. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]…”

“…Active learning is a student-centered approach that requires students to make conscious efforts in the assigned activities 7. Engaging students in active learning strategies through the application of digital technology can improve comprehension, develop long-term recall, and strengthens problem-solving skills 8-18…”