Postvention as Prevention: Coping with Loss at School

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Virtual Reality Simulations

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread traumatic experiences for Pre-K through grade 12 (PK-12) students, including loss, isolation, and increased violence.
• These experiences can result in significant mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, substance use disorders, and suicidal ideation.
• Effective support systems within schools are crucial for mitigating the impact of student trauma and loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a virtual human role-play simulation designed to prepare PK-12 educators and staff to respond to student deaths.
• To evaluate the simulation's effectiveness in enhancing crisis response planning and postvention strategies.
• To determine if the simulation improves staff's ability to use evidence-based communication strategies with students and colleagues.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized a virtual human role-play simulation involving PK-12 educators and staff across the US.
• Quantitative data were analyzed using matched sample t-tests and ANOVAs.
• Qualitative data from open-ended responses were analyzed using MAXQDA software.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated statistically significant increases in preparedness to recognize trauma signs in students and colleagues.
• Self-efficacy in approaching individuals experiencing distress and making referrals to support services significantly improved.
• The simulation effectively enhanced staff's confidence in managing conversations following a student death.

Conclusions:

• Virtual human role-play simulations are a powerful tool for training educators to address student trauma and loss.
• This innovative approach enhances school personnel's capacity to provide crucial support in the aftermath of a student death.
• Implementing such simulations can foster more resilient and supportive school communities.