Background: The rapid advancement of educational technology has significantly influenced nursing education, with Virtual Reality (VR) simulation emerging as a promising pedagogical strategy. VR simulation provides immersive, interactive, and risk-free learning environments that allow nursing students to practice complex clinical skills without endangering patient safety. As healthcare systems become increasingly technology-driven, there is a growing need to explore how such innovations are perceived by both learners and educators to ensure effective integration into curricula. Aim: To explore the perceptions of nursing students and faculty regarding the use of VR simulation in nursing education, focusing on perceived benefits, challenges, and suggestions for effective implementation. Methods: A descriptive exploratory qualitative study was conducted at a selected nursing college in South India. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 100 nursing students (final-year and third-year B.Sc. Nursing) and 50 faculty members from academic and clinical settings. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed through qualitative content analysis. Ethical approval and institutional permission were obtained prior to data collection. Results: The majority of participants demonstrated high awareness of VR simulation (students: 74.5%; faculty: 90%). Both groups perceived VR as a valuable tool for enhancing clinical competence, decision-making, and confidence while reducing anxiety associated with real clinical exposure. However, participants emphasized that VR cannot replace real clinical practice. Major challenges identified included limited infrastructure, high cost, lack of technical support, and insufficient faculty training. Participants strongly recommended structured curricular integration and regular training workshops. Conclusion: VR simulation holds strong potential as a supplementary teaching–learning strategy in nursing education. Strategic planning, institutional support, and continuous faculty development are essential for maximizing its benefits and ensuring sustainable integration into nursing curricula. Keywords: Virtual reality, nursing education, simulation, perceptions, faculty development, clinical training
Nandakumar Nandakumar (Thu,) studied this question.