Student's Perception of vSim for Nursing® using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our nursing program utilized virtual simulation learning experiences to replace clinical hours. This pilot project used both quantitative and qualitative research methods to explore undergraduate pre-licensure (n = 99) and accelerated second-degree students (n = 19) student's perceived effectiveness of using vSim for Nursing® as a clinical replacement with a second aim that explored their preparedness for the virtual simulation experience.

Efficacy was evaluated using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M).

Mean scores indicated that students strongly agreed on the efficacy of vSim for learning, with all items ranging from 50% to 79.7%. Majority of students strongly agreed that their preparation was highly effective, ranging 67.8% to 77.1%. Qualitative findings from the open-ended feedback supports findings to the effectiveness of virtual simulation, with one of the major themes that emerged was the presence of the clinical nurse educator.

Students perceived vSim for Nursing® to be an effective tool for clinical practice replacement and felt prepared to meet the learning outcomes. Debriefing remains an essential component to any mode of simulation.