Building Faculty Competence and Self-Efficacy for Using Z Space Virtual Reality (VR) Software in the Classroom

The environments of teaching and learning are changing as educational needs and technology advancements evolve. One of the newest technologies gaining momentum in healthcare education is virtual reality/augmented reality (VR/AR) that provides increased active learning opportunities by providing interaction. It has become imperative that faculty stay at the forefront of technology to educate the future care provider in navigating patient care. However, to capitalize on the advantages of using VR/AR technology software to enhance active learning, faculty need to know they exist, how they can use either and have confidence that they can use technology to enhance learning of today\u27s highly diverse and technology-savvy students. A literature review demonstrated a lack of confidence and knowledge by faculty on how to implement VR/AR technology software into the nursing curriculum. Further research reported that nursing faculty lacked time to research new technologies, lacked knowledge of technology use, not aware of best practices for the use of technologies, and lacked support by administration and peers. This project implemented an online educational module for nursing faculty focused on Z Space software learning. Measured levels of competence and self-efficacy were performed prior to and after the educational intervention. Data analyzed, demonstrated that both competence and self-efficacy improved on Z Space software as self-reported by faculty. Although this was a small sample size, it is recommended that nursing faculty participates in ongoing education on the use of VR technology software