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Updated: Oct 3, 2025

Online Explorative Study on the Learning Uses of Virtual Reality Among Early Adopters
Published on: November 22, 2019
Perceptions and behaviors of learner engagement with virtual educational platforms
K J Dickinson1, K E Caldwell2, E A Graviss3
1Department of Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Office of Interprofessional Education, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
Virtual platforms for surgical education require deliberate design to ensure learner engagement. Simply using technology does not guarantee active participation in virtual learning environments.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Educational Technology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of educational technology in surgical education.
- Understanding the perspectives of surgical education champions on virtual platforms is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the attitudes and behaviors of surgical education champions regarding virtual educational platforms.
- To identify factors influencing learner engagement in virtual surgical education.
Main Methods:
- An electronic survey was distributed to members of the Association of Surgical Education.
- The survey explored methods, improvements, and influences on engagement in virtual learning.
- Stratified analysis examined response differences by demographics and training level.
Main Results:
- 154 Association of Surgical Education members responded (13% response rate).
- 88% accessed virtual learning events from home; 87% engaged in other activities concurrently.
- Females were more likely than males to participate in other activities while in virtual sessions (62.3% vs. 37.7%, p=0.04).
Conclusions:
- Virtual platforms do not inherently guarantee increased learner engagement.
- Strategic design of educational content and activities is essential for effective virtual surgical education.
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