Exploring the Educational Value of an Immersive Virtual Reality Method Within a Continuing Education Module in...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Nursing Education
• Immersive Technologies

Background:

• Limited research exists on immersive 360° video's educational impact in continuing professional development.
• This study investigated the utility and acceptance of 360° video in a nursing continuing education context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the educational value and acceptability of immersive 360° video for nursing continuing education.
• To identify best practices for integrating 360° video into nursing modules.

Main Methods:

• A convergent parallel mixed methods design was employed.
• Data collection involved surveys and focus groups with 11 registered nurses (RNs) over three time points.
• The study was conducted at a university's nursing and midwifery school.

Main Results:

• Participants recognized significant educational value, particularly in how 360° video stimulated deep reflective processes.
• Post-video classroom discussions enhanced the learning experience.
• Content tailoring is essential, focusing on high-acuity, low-frequency, or complex clinical scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Immersive 360° video presents a promising educational tool for continuing nursing education.
• Effective implementation requires content customization to meet specific learner needs.
• A reflective model can structure valuable post-video discussions.