Free Virtual Reality Headsets for Nurse Aide Training Programs

New software is being developed to create virtual reality (VR) nurse aide skill simulations that align with the Headmaster skills test. Nurse aide training programs and instructors can volunteer to test the VR software to help provide feedback during the final product development stages.

Using VR Software and Headsets to Practice Skills

Virtual reality uses computer technology to create a simulated environment that can be explored in 360 degrees. Using headsets, VR places the user inside the virtual environment to give an immersive experience. The South Central Services Cooperative (SCSC) is leading the effort to develop VR software that immerses nurse aide students into a clinical lab setting to perform and practice skills to care for residents.

The software is in the final stages of the development process. Once fully developed, nurse aide candidates would use the VR headsets to learn, practice, and test Headmaster skills in preparation for the skills exam.

Features of the new technology include:

• The VR skills align with the 17 mock skills from the Headmaster skills test.
• The skills simulations are immersive and accurate to reality.
• Students can practice in two modes: learn and test.
• The cloud-based design allows students to access the platform whenever and wherever they are with internet access.
• Students and instructors can improve performance with real-time, individualized feedback.
• The software analyzes different parameters to improve techniques and track learning over time.

Demo the virtual reality experience from your computer.

Seeking Volunteers to Test the VR Software and Headsets

SCSC is seeking volunteers to test the VR headsets to ensure the software is user-friendly and aligns with the Minnesota nurse aide curriculum and clinical best practices. VR headset(s) would be free for participants to test and provide feedback on the software.

Interested volunteers must:

• Be training program instructors and/or students of an MDH-approved Nurse Aide Training Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP)
• Must have availability and/or active students in late November-early December to use the VR headsets
• Must be willing to provide feedback on the software and user experience

If you are interested in participating or want to learn more, please contact Anna Mowry, Director of Workforce Solutions.

Please note that MDH has not yet approved this software to count toward the 75 hours of training.

Virtual Reality: Expanding Access and Opportunities

The South Central Services Cooperative is developing this software to bring equity and accessibility to nurse aide candidates throughout the state. Nurse aide candidates may not be able to attend traditional lab dates due to work, childcare, transportation issues, or lack of accessibility to training in their area.

This VR software would provide an alternative approach to learning skills and could help strengthen existing curriculums and training programs. Ultimately, SCSC hopes to receive MDH approval to credit the hours spent on the VR skills towards the required 75 hours of training.

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