Educational Characteristics of Virtual Simulation in Nursing: An Integrative Review

• Published in: Clinical simulation in nursing 2019-12, Vol.37, p.18-28
• Main Authors: Shin, Hyunsook, Rim, Dahae, Kim, Hyojin, Park, Sojeong, Shon, Soonyoung
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: computer user training; engagement; integrative review; interactive learning; nursing; nursing education; participatory learning; simulation; simulation training; virtual reality
• ISSN: 1876-1399; 1876-1402
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecns.2019.08.002

Virtual simulation might be effective for enhancing nursing students’ learning. We conducted an integrative review to identify the educational characteristics of virtual simulation in nursing education. We used Whittemore and Knafl’s (2005) integrative review method. We searched for studies in PubMed, Medline, and CINAHL, and 40 studies met the inclusion criteria. We identified the general and virtual-specific characteristics of virtual simulation. The educational effects of virtual simulation were achieved through integration of virtual and general simulation strategies to promote learner engagement. Virtual simulation might be an effective educational strategy for increasing learner engagement. To promote learner achievement, we recommend designing virtual simulations using the characteristics we identified. •Educational characteristics of virtual simulation in nursing need to be clarified for constructing effective educational strategies.•There were general simulation characteristics and virtual-specific characteristics in virtual nursing simulation. The educational effects of virtual simulation were achieved through the integration of virtual and general simulation strategies to promote learner engagement.•Nursing educators designing integrative learning can use virtual nursing simulation for their educational platform.•Educational characteristics for virtual simulation should be selected based on the evidence to support effective educational strategies.•Effectively designed virtual simulation focused on learner engagement can lead to successful learning outcomes.