Graduate Nursing Education Outcomes in Multi-User Virtual Environment (MUVE) Learning

Multi-user virtual environments (MUVE) are Internet based virtual worlds in which multiple users simultaneously interact for many different purposes, including learning (Anderson, 2009). Research evidence demonstrates that MUVE learning links formal and informal cognitive processes, improving learning outcomes (Cook, 2012). Many universities have incorporated MUVE learning into their curriculum and students report positive learning experiences in MUVE. When given a choice many students prefer MUVE learning activities versus traditional activities (Skiba, 2009). However, little research exists about MUVE learning in nursing education. This mixed method exploratory study is undertaken to measure learning outcomes in graduate nursing MUVE learning activities based in second life, a free public MUVE. The study sample consisted of graduate Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) students currently enrolled in a class based largely in Second Life. Prospective participants were introduced to the study in an e-mail from the study Primary Investigator, with an accompanying electronic informed consent form. After receiving consent, participant’s dialogues from MUVE learning activities were de-identified to maintain anonymity and were analyzed using a scale to evaluate learning outcomes. A follow-up survey was administered at the semester’s conclusion to collect data on participant’s comparisons of MUVE and traditional learning activities. Descriptive and inferential statistics as well as analysis of themes were used to analyze study data