Clinical virtual simulation: predictors of user acceptance in nursing education

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Health Professions Education
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Virtual patients in simulators enhance healthcare training opportunities.
• Limited understanding exists regarding student-perceived usability and acceptance factors for clinical virtual simulation in nursing education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the key factors and determinants predicting the acceptance and use of clinical virtual simulation (CVS) in nursing education.

Main Methods:

• An observational, cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted with nursing students.
• Data were collected using a questionnaire adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model 3.
• A convenience sample of 619 nursing degree students participated.

Main Results:

• Students reported high perceived usefulness (M=5.34) and intention to use (M=5.21) CVS.
• The Technology Acceptance Model 3 explained 62% of perceived utility and 54% of intention to use.
• Relevance for learning and enjoyability were the strongest predictors of perceived usefulness, ease of use, and behavioral intention.

Conclusions:

• Relevance for learning and enjoyability are the primary determinants influencing the acceptance and utilization of clinical virtual simulation in nursing education.
• These findings highlight the importance of integrating engaging and educationally pertinent virtual simulation experiences for nursing students.