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Virtual Simulation Technology
Rozlyn A. Peck
Western Governors University
College of Health Professions
, 2
Executive Summary
As technology continues to evolve, educational and nursing practices must also evolve to
continue to provide safe effective care to the patients and communities they serve. The current
technology of using simulated labs and onsite clinical experiences for students’ hands-on
teaching no longer meets students' and educators' needs due to restrictions in place related to the
recent COVID-19 pandemic. This proposal provides an explanation of the current gaps and why
virtual simulation technology (VST) should be implemented.
A literature review was conducted to uncover solutions for the gaps identified in the
needs-gap analysis. The analysis process is explained along with the gaps that were revealed. A
need for alternate means of clinical experiences for students was found to be the primary gap.
The proposal includes a review of five sources that support the use of virtual simulation
technology. The stakeholders and methods used for collaboration are discussed. Surveys found
that faculty and students were open to the implementation of virtual simulation technology.
The challenges arising from the sole use of simulation labs and onsite clinical experiences
are reviewed. Recent closures of schools and student restrictions at healthcare facilities used for
clinical experiences have created additional challenges that can be addressed using VST. A force-
field analysis is also included, presenting the organization’s readiness for change. Forces for and
against the proposed change and organizational factors that may facilitate or impede change are
analyzed. Lewin’s change theory is reviewed and was chosen as the model to implement the
virtual simulation technology.
Keeping the learning institution’s technology options up-to-date creates multiple benefits.
The use of virtual simulation technology to supplement nursing students' clinical experiences has
increased in recent years and demonstrates numerous benefits to the learning process. This
, 3
proposal explains why it is necessary to implement virtual simulation technology for clinical
experiences and how it will benefit students, faculty, the learning institution, and the nursing
profession.
Virtual Simulation Technology
Rozlyn A. Peck
Western Governors University
College of Health Professions
, 2
Executive Summary
As technology continues to evolve, educational and nursing practices must also evolve to
continue to provide safe effective care to the patients and communities they serve. The current
technology of using simulated labs and onsite clinical experiences for students’ hands-on
teaching no longer meets students' and educators' needs due to restrictions in place related to the
recent COVID-19 pandemic. This proposal provides an explanation of the current gaps and why
virtual simulation technology (VST) should be implemented.
A literature review was conducted to uncover solutions for the gaps identified in the
needs-gap analysis. The analysis process is explained along with the gaps that were revealed. A
need for alternate means of clinical experiences for students was found to be the primary gap.
The proposal includes a review of five sources that support the use of virtual simulation
technology. The stakeholders and methods used for collaboration are discussed. Surveys found
that faculty and students were open to the implementation of virtual simulation technology.
The challenges arising from the sole use of simulation labs and onsite clinical experiences
are reviewed. Recent closures of schools and student restrictions at healthcare facilities used for
clinical experiences have created additional challenges that can be addressed using VST. A force-
field analysis is also included, presenting the organization’s readiness for change. Forces for and
against the proposed change and organizational factors that may facilitate or impede change are
analyzed. Lewin’s change theory is reviewed and was chosen as the model to implement the
virtual simulation technology.
Keeping the learning institution’s technology options up-to-date creates multiple benefits.
The use of virtual simulation technology to supplement nursing students' clinical experiences has
increased in recent years and demonstrates numerous benefits to the learning process. This
, 3
proposal explains why it is necessary to implement virtual simulation technology for clinical
experiences and how it will benefit students, faculty, the learning institution, and the nursing
profession.
