(118) Rethinking Virtual Simulation: Using Familiar Tools for Instructional Design

Abstract : Due to the COVID-19, Johnson County Community College (JCCC) nursing program was faced with pivoting their traditional F2F high-quality immersive simulations to an equivalent virtual interactive simulation learning experience. Existing virtual products were explored however, a knowledge gap was evident as the products provided primarily fixed scenarios with limited opportunity for customization. It was necessary to create an online simulation solution, maintaining the critical thinking and clinical judgment focus of the nursing program’s organizing framework of the NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model and Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory. Adherence to the INACSL Standards of Best Practice, NCSBN Simulation Guidelines, and SSH Accreditation Standards was essential to maintain the standards of the simulation curriculum. Being cost conscious, a ‘digital twin’ of the simulation experience was developed in PowerPoint, delivered via Zoom. Photos, videos, and sounds of the Simulation Center were embedded as animations. Faculty facilitated the product by utilizing the computer microphone to communicate as the patient voice and displaying necessary data. The students were able to complete their clinical hours and education, allowing them to graduate or progress forward in the nursing program. The familiarity of the virtual environment provided a minimal learning curve benefitting the students and faculty. Student reflections revealed the product fostered more critical thinking than traditional physical environment. Further benefits included cost and time savings. This innovative, interactive virtual solution was a 2021 Gartner Eye on Innovation Award Recognized Solution for Higher Education and can be individualized or applied to any educational program or experiential learning platform.