Using Rapid Design Thinking to Develop Virtual Reality Simulations for Managing Psychiatric Emergencies

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Psychiatry
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual learning in psychiatric medical education.
• Virtual reality (VR) simulation offers engaging, safe experiential learning opportunities to bridge theory and practice.
• Rapid design thinking provides a framework for guiding medical innovations, including VR development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To operationalize a three-step rapid design thinking framework into a methodology for developing VR simulations for psychiatric education.
• To provide a practical guide for educators integrating VR into psychiatric training.
• To demonstrate the value of rapid design thinking in swiftly developing learner-centered VR solutions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a three-step rapid design thinking framework.
• Developed a stepwise methodology for creating immersive and non-immersive VR simulations.
• Incorporated principles of stakeholder engagement, vendor selection, digital collaboration, DEI, and iterative user testing.

Main Results:

• Key lessons learned include the importance of early stakeholder engagement, clear terms of reference, and rigorous vendor selection.
• Effective VR development requires utilizing free digital tools for collaboration and emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Iterative user testing is crucial for ensuring the usability and effectiveness of VR simulations.

Conclusions:

• The rapid design thinking framework offers a practical approach for developing and implementing VR simulations in psychiatric education.
• This methodology supports the creation of learner-centered solutions efficiently.
• Future research should address VR accessibility for individuals with disabilities and its long-term cost-effectiveness.