From Surface to Deep Learning: Gamified Mobile Education for Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Injection Skills

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a game-based mobile application on nursing students' skills in administering subcutaneous (SC) and intramuscular (IM) injections. Nursing education traditionally involves both theoretical and practical components. With the advent of digital technologies, innovative methods such as game-based learning have been introduced to enhance practical skills and knowledge retention in nursing education. This study explores the use of a mobile application designed to improve students' competence in SC and IM drug administration. This was an experimental study conducted during the 2021-2022 academic year. It involved a study group of 64 students who received training through a simulation game system and a control group of 65 students who underwent traditional training methods. Data were collected using the Self-Demonstration Form, the Study Process Questionnaire, and the Skills Performance List for Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Administration. The study focused on assessing the impact of game-based learning on students' performance and learning approaches. The study group showed significantly greater improvements in learning approaches and medication administration skills compared to the control group. Deep learning scores increased from 31.39 ± 6.23 to 45.05 ± 5.46 in the study group, versus 31.78 ± 5.68 to 37.02 ± 4.17 in the control group (p < 0.01). SC and IM administration scores improved significantly in the study group (SC: 22.50 ± 15.46 to 42.45 ± 11.66, p = 0.015; IM: 27.75 ± 15.98 to 59.45 ± 12.95, p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Scenario-based analyses also showed significant performance gains in the study group across all scenarios (p < 0.05). The HEM-SC-IM game-based mobile application proved effective in improving nursing students' skills in administering SC and IM injections. The interactive and engaging nature of game-based learning provides a valuable educational experience, promoting deeper understanding and practical skills development. This study supports the integration of educational technology in nursing curricula to enhance learning outcomes.