Usability and effect of immersive simulation on empathy: A pilot study in nursing education

Background: Empathy is a core nursing skill essential for therapeutic relationships. Some healthcare professionals struggle to empathize with people with intellectual and multiple disabilities. This study examined the usability and effect of immersive simulation as a teaching and learning strategy on empathy among students in an intellectual disability nursing programme. Aim: To examine the usability and effect of immersive simulation on empathy among intellectual disability nursing students. Methods: A 1-group pre-post pilot study was conducted with students enrolled in an intellectual disability nursing programme at an Irish university. Participants experienced an immersive simulation of travelling on a bus in a wheelchair. Pre- and post-simulation questionnaires assessed usability and empathy. Results: Fifty-five students participated. Empathy scores significantly increased post-simulation. Usability was rated highly (system usability scale (SUS) M = 92.8), with most participants finding the simulation easy to use and confidence-enhancing. Satisfaction was high, with nearly all students agreeing that immersive simulation was a valuable learning method. Conclusions: Immersive simulation shows promise for enhancing empathy and engagement in nursing education. Further research should explore long-term impacts and integration into curricula.