Date of Defense

4-23-2026

Date of Graduation

5-2026

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Sally Vliem

Second Advisor

Susan Houtrouw

Abstract

Objective

This literature review evaluates the effectiveness of immersive virtual reality (IVR) and mannequin-based simulation. The review examines whether there are any differences in student performance and confidence when utilizing these teaching methods. Understanding the impact of simulation-based learning on students’ overall performance and feelings of competency when performing skills can improve simulation practices to meet students’ needs better and can be used to adjust the format of clinical education and perceptions about how hands-on education should be structured for optimal learning outcomes.

Methods

A literature review was conducted by one researcher to find studies that contained information about IVR and mannequin-based simulation. The database used was WMU Libraries, which includes literature from AccessMedicine, ACM Digital Library, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Credo Reference, Emerald Publications, Films on Demand, HathiTrust Digital Library, IEEE Explore, JSTOR, Medline, PubMed, ProQuest databases, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Springer publications, Tayor & Francis, and Wiley Online Library.

Results

Twelve studies were included and met the criteria to be included in the literature review. The included literature showed that simulation-based experiences improve students' performance of clinical skills, with IVR having a significant impact on learner performance and confidence when compared to mannequin-based simulation learning.

Conclusion

The findings of this literature review indicate that simulation-based learning enhances nursing students' performance and self-confidence, particularly when using IVR. While both simulation methods improve student outcomes, IVR demonstrated more consistent statistically significant increases in performance and confidence across the studies when compared to mannequin-based simulation. However, more research on IVR simulation is needed to support IVR as a better alternative to mannequin-based simulation. Studies also need to be performed in more diverse geographical locations. Financial studies also need to be completed on the feasibility of IVR in institutions with different available resources.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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