Safe4Child

Virtual Reality (VR) and Virtual Reality Simulation: 

VR is a computer-generated environment where the user is placed in a virtual world. They can turn and look around and explore the world as if they were actually in it. It creates a much more immersive experience than normal PC monitors do. VR can be used for various entertainment, education, training and research purposes. It is an immersive experience that can be experienced normally through a VR-headset such as Meta Quest 3 and other similar devices. [1,4]

VR-simulation is a type of virtual reality that simulates something from a real-world scenario. These can often be scenarios that are hard, dangerous or ineffective to produce in reality. And in VR, such situations can be reproduced as many times as we want. VR simulation is becoming more and more common in various industry settings such as  medical procedures, flight simulations, safety, military training, education and beyond [1,4].

Hands-on training: VR simulations provide hands-on training in a safe and controlled environment.  

Skill development: VR simulations can help to develop technical, cognitive, and socio-emotional skills.

Immersive learning experiences: VR simulations provide immersive learning experiences that are engaging and memorable. 

Understanding complex concepts: VR simulations can help to understand complex concepts and theories. 

Access to learning situations: VR simulations provide access to learning situations that may not be possible in real life. [1,2,3,4]

Virtual  simulation (VRS) provides a high-potential opportunity for acquiring clinical skills. Learners have the chance to practise in a safe environment and learn from mistakes without harming real patients. 

Reserarch has found that, students reported the VRS scenarios realistic. They valued the ability to be able to practise the various scenarios multiple times to embed their learning and highlighted the importance of being able to make mistakes without fear of impacting care. The VRS scenarios were perceived to be less stressful and intimidating than the usual simulation environment. Also the VR scenarios catered for greater student numbers when compared to traditional simulation. [5]

[1] https://www.britannica.com/technology/virtual-reality