Comparing Virtual Reality and Screen-Based Virtual Simulation in Nursing Education: Performance, Usability, and Cognitive Load

• In Event: Simulation and Its Effects in Professions Education

Abstract

Virtual simulations, either screen- or headset-based, provide nursing students with the ability to practice patient care without the personnel and equipment costs of non-virtual, in-person simulations. While effective in helping students learn, limited work exists to provide guidance concerning which modality type (screen-based or headset) offers an optimal learning and interaction experience. The present study compared nursing students’ performance and ratings of usability and cognitive load demands between the two modalities using the same virtual simulation. Findings provide evidence that both modalities yielded similar performance scores, required similar cognitive resources, and were comparable in usability. Results suggest that nursing educators have flexibility in selecting between screen-based and headset modalities for virtual simulation training.

Authors

• Sayed Azher, McGill University
  Presenting Author

• Amanda Cervantes, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Caroline Marchionni, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Keerat Kaur Grewal, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Hugo Marchand, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Jason Matthew Harley, McGill University
  Non-Presenting Author