Abstract
Background
Virtual Reality (VR) enables the user to be immersed in a simulated world where they can interact with the environment and perform tasks in real-time. VR has been shown to convey quickly and efficiently abstract and complex concepts and increase knowledge acquisition. Three-dimensional immersive VR has been shown to quickly and efficiently convey abstract and complex ideas and maintain a long-term effect on knowledge acquisition. It’s use in midwifery education is still in embryonic stages and a pedagogy to support learning has yet to be established.
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to investigate the acquisition and retention of new knowledge in midwifery students using VR teaching methods. The study explored the impact of visualisation technology on student learning of the third stage of labour.
Methods
Using handheld devices with stereoscopic lenses, students viewed a predesigned artefact depicting the birth of the placenta. A longitudinal pre-test/post-test design was employed which utilised a purposive sample of first year midwifery students attending participating universities in Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Data was collected at 4 time points; prior to exposure to VR teaching methods, post and at 1, 3 and 6 months.. SPSS statistical software version 22 was used to analysis data. Ethics was approved from the University of the Sunshine Coast Human Research Ethics Committee A211569.
Results
Initial analysis highlighted the diversity of students within the cohort. This and findings from subsequent analysis that considers the results from each institution will be analysed, and the results presented at the conference.
Conclusions
This study fills the gap in knowledge regarding the impact of 3D virtual learning on knowledge acquisition and retention in midwifery education.
Key message
Educators need evidence-based resources to develop curriculum that is innovative, and midwifery focused. A wide-spread investigative research study is needed to establish teaching and learning strategies for midwifery specific education.