3D Simulated Learning Environment
“Health education focuses on the preparation of graduates who are able to think creatively, critically, and accurately in a myriad of situations. Healthcare errors and communication failures call for educators to include interdisciplinary team training and/or drills. There are many reasons why nurse educators have embraced the use of simulation: to foster self-confidence; to encourage team building and communication; to allow for student practice in a safe environment; and to promote clinical reasoning skills. More research is needed documenting positive impacts on cognitive learning from simulations.
Our research investigates how learners can effectively acquire knowledge and skills via virtual field trips. Thirty-nine undergraduate students participated in the study in April 2013. They were recruited from the department of Nursing at an urban public university. The 130-minute study is comprised of four conditions created by crossing the two factors of Case Study (CS) and Role-Play (RP). Each factor has two levels: text vs. simulation. For the CS factor, students either read a text-based case or watch a simulation-based video case; for the RP factor, students role-play either via text chatting online or in a simulated virtual environment. Data analysis is based upon four data sources: (a) pretest regarding students
