TRANSFORMING NURSING EDUCATION: THE ROLE OF VR AND AI

THE power of VR in nursing education can already be seen. As a nursing educator at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), I have witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of integrating virtual reality (VR) into our nursing curriculum. Our collaboration with the University of Missouri has opened new avenues for immersive learning, allowing our students to engage with realistic clinical scenarios in a controlled virtual environment.

- JENNIFER CHIPPS

The introduction of VR in our nursing programme marks a significant milestone. During a recent demonstration, I personally experienced the VR setup. The simulation transported me to a virtual hospital with nursing staff, doctors and patients. The realism was astounding, and it was easy to forget that I was in a lecture room and not an actual clinic.

Like third-year nursing student, Nnenna Osondo, our students have found the VR simulations incredibly beneficial. Nnenna described her experience as an emergency nurse in the VR environment, where she managed multiple patients and responded to critical situations. This hands-on approach enhances their learning experience, making them better prepared for real-world challenges.