Nursing Faculty Perceptions on the Use of Computer-Based Virtual Simulation in an Associate Degree Nursing Program

Nursing Faculty Perceptions on the Use of Computer-Based Virtual Simulation in an Associate Degree Nursing Program

Computer-based virtual simulation (CBVS) is a teaching strategy that uses computer software to create realistic scenarios for nursing students to practice their clinical skills and decision-making. CBVS can provide students with opportunities to experience low-exposed situations, enhance their clinical reasoning, and build their professional resilience. However, the use and effectiveness of CBVS in nursing education are still under-researched, especially in associate degree nursing (ADN) programs. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perceptions of nursing faculty on the use of CBVS in an ADN program.

The study used a qualitative descriptive design with semi-structured interviews. A purposive sample of 12 nursing faculty members who had experience with CBVS in an ADN program participated in the study. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

The findings revealed four main themes: (1) benefits of CBVS, (2) challenges of CBVS, (3) strategies for successful implementation of CBVS, and (4) recommendations for future development of CBVS. The benefits of CBVS included providing students with diverse and realistic learning experiences, facilitating student engagement and feedback, and enhancing faculty development and collaboration. The challenges of CBVS included technical issues, lack of resources and support, difficulty in integrating CBVS into the curriculum, and faculty resistance and workload. The strategies for successful implementation of CBVS included selecting appropriate CBVS software and scenarios, aligning CBVS with course objectives and outcomes, providing clear instructions and guidance for students and faculty, and evaluating the effectiveness of CBVS. The recommendations for future development of CBVS included improving the quality and accessibility of CBVS software, increasing the availability and variety of CBVS scenarios, developing standardized guidelines and best practices for CBVS, and conducting more research on the impact of CBVS on student learning outcomes.

The study concluded that CBVS is a valuable and innovative teaching strategy that can enhance the quality of nursing education in ADN programs. However, there are still many barriers and gaps that need to be addressed to optimize the use and effectiveness of CBVS. The study suggested some implications for nursing education, practice, and research regarding CBVS.

Works Cited

Cant, Robyn et al. “Use and Effectiveness of Virtual Simulations in Nursing Student Education: An Umbrella Review research paper writing service.” CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing 41.1 (2023): 31-38.

Shin, Hyunsook and Dahae Rim. “Development and assessment of a curriculum model for virtual simulation in nursing: curriculum development and pilot-evaluation.” BMC Medical Education 23 (2023): 284.

“Virtual Simulations, and the Future of Nursing Education.” WGU Blog. 19 March 2019. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/virtual-simulations-nursing-education-future1903.html