Exploring the potential use of the metaverse in nurse education through a mock trial

Abstract

Background: The metaverse has been attracting attention as a space for the application of education, where integrating the real and virtual worlds offers immersive 3D experiences. Consequently, its potential for higher education, including nursing, is being explored as a dynamic alternative to traditional education. Objectives: This study explores the applicability of metaverse in nurse education. It was conducted to implement a mock court on the metaverse platform and explore the learning experiences of nursing students through mock trials. Design: Qualitative study. Settings: A virtual mock court in VRChat (a virtual reality space). Participants: Fourteen participants were divided into three groups. Methods: An orientation was conducted to explain the virtual space before the mock trial. On the day of the mock trial, a health survey of study participants was conducted in advance. After the mock trial, questionnaires and reflective diaries were written. Results: The experiences of nursing students were organized into eleven sub-themes and three themes: “core features of the metaverse platform,” “participation in a mock trial in the VRChat virtual space,” and “metaverse-based learning using a mock trial.” Conclusions: Nursing students participated and immersed themselves in learning while accepting the characteristics of the metaverse platform, which differs from face-to-face classes or existing educational methods. The metaverse enables reflective learning based on experiential learning and strengthens awareness of diverse viewpoints.