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Effectiveness of Two Varying Levels of Virtual Reality Simulation
Sherrill J Smith1, Sharon L Farra, Deborah L Ulrich
1About the Authors Sherrill J. Smith, PhD, RN, CNL, CNE, Sharon L. Farra, PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE, and Deborah L. Ulrich, PhD, ANEF, are from Wright State University College of Nursing and Health, Dayton, Ohio. Eric Hodgson, PhD, is from Miami University Interactive Media Studies, Oxford, Ohio. Stephanie Nicely, EdD, MSN, RN, is from Miami University Department of Nursing, Oxford, Ohio. Angelia Mickle, DNP, RN, FNP, PMHNP, is from Cedarville University School of Nursing, Cedarville, Ohio. The authors acknowledge financial support from the National League for Nursing and the Zeta Phi Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International. The authors would also like to thank the faculty from all universities that provided support for the study and especially acknowledge Kelly Hanlon, MS, for her assistance as a graduate research assistant on this study. For more information, contact Dr. Smith at sherrill.smith@wright.edu.
Aim:
The aim of the study was to assess two levels of immersive virtual reality simulation (VRS) to teach the skill of decontamination.
Background:
Little is known about the use of VRS in providing disaster education, including retention.
Method:
Quasiexperimental design with repeated measures, supplemented by qualitative data, using a convenience sample of senior baccalaureate nursing students (n = 197) from four Midwest campuses was used. Students were randomly assigned to a group (two levels of immersive VRS and a control group) to learn the skill of decontamination. Cognitive learning, performance, and performance time were measured pre/post and at six months.
Results:
Outcome measures were significant with immediate postintervention improvements and lower retention scores at six months. No significant differences were noted between groups. Students were satisfied with the VRS but found immersive VRS more interactive.
Conclusion:
VRS provides another alternative for simulated learning experiences; best practice approaches for its use still need to be explored.
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