Virtual gaming simulation of a mental health assessment: A usability study. (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Verkuyl, Margaret; Romaniuk, Daria; Mastrilli, Paula
• Is Part Of: Nurse education in practice. Volume 31(2018)
• Page Start: 83
• Page End: 87
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: Nursing education -- Virtual simulation -- Usability study; Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Education, Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Study and teaching; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 610.73071
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2018.05.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-5953

Abstract

Abstract: Providing safe and realistic virtual simulations could be an effective way to facilitate the transition from the classroom to clinical practice. As nursing programs begin to include virtual simulations as a learning strategy; it is critical to first assess the technology for ease of use and usefulness. A virtual gaming simulation was developed, and a usability study was conducted to assess its ease of use and usefulness for students and faculty. The Technology Acceptance Model provided the framework for the study, which included expert review and testing by nursing faculty and nursing students. This study highlighted the importance of assessing ease of use and usefulness in a virtual game simulation and provided feedback for the development of an effective virtual gaming simulation. The study participants said the virtual gaming simulation was engaging, realistic and similar to a clinical experience. Participants found the game easy to use and useful. Testing provided the development team with ideas to improve the user interface. The usability methodology provided is a replicable approach to testing virtual experiences before a research study or before implementing virtual experiences into curriculum. Highlights: There is a need to provide students with safe learning environments. A virtual simulation was designed to practice clinical skills. The virtual simulation went through a rigorous usability testing process. Students reported it was interesting, motivating and useful for practice. The virtual simulation could augment in-person simulations.