Using a Virtual Learning Environment within Simulation to Enhance Inter-Professional Team Working Skills

This chapter details a collaborative teaching and learning evaluative project between Nursing and Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Medicine at Keele University to explore the development of team working skills (NOTECH) and debrief within an inter-professional active virtual learning environment (KAVE). The virtual ward and NOTECH training provided within the KAVE are thought to be the first of their kind within the UK. The project has recently been presented within Australia and Italy, and been very positively received. KAVE is a physical room where three-dimensional “stereoscopic” visuals display on three walls and the floor to create a computer-generated virtual environment. A student wears active 3D glasses and a lightweight head and hand-tracking device. The computer-generated visuals respond to position in the KAVE and allow the student to “pick up” and interact with digital objects such as care plans, prescription charts, observation charts, etc. The virtual ward is able to simulate observation and diagnostic skills training. ECG monitors' provide information regarding the status of each virtual patient within the ward. The virtual ward clinical simulation enabled the students to rehearse professional behaviours in a risk-free environment, whilst providing opportunities for non-technical skills practice prior to real-world patient encounters. Early evaluations received from students have been very positive.