Harnessing Virtual Reality for Distance Learning in Healthcare: Evaluating a Sepsis Simulation Across Modalities and Programmes

Virtual reality (VR) simulations could have specific potential to enhance online and distance learning in healthcare, but research on student experiences of this is very limited. This paper describes four trials of a VR sepsis simulation conducted using onscreen or headset modalities and with nursing and social work students (n = 77). Open survey questions and debrief recordings provide qualitative data and the Immersive Technology Evaluation Measure instrument provides quantitative comparison. Comparable levels of immersion, motivation, and cognitive load were found regardless of the modality, which is encouraging for equitable access to VR simulation among distance learners with varied access to devices and support. Qualitative analysis identifies support requirements and shows that VR can address gaps between distance learning and practice experiences, with participants reporting a desire for tutors to observe their skills at a distance, and to experience relevant but rare scenarios, aiding professional identity formation. Article Highlights VR simulations fill gaps for online and distance learning healthcare students to demonstrate their skills to educators and develop professional identity Almost all students were positive about the potential to integrate simulation further into their studies but also report requirements for greater support and adaptability Students report similar levels of immersion and motivation using VR headsets or standard computers.