Abstract

Background: The aims of this study were to first, investigate nursing students’ perceptions about the effectiveness of implementing the Virtual Clinical Excursions (VCE) in improving their learning experiences. Second, to evaluate the effectiveness of VCE in improving students’ physical assessment skills. Third, to investigate if the VCE improved students’ oral and written communication skills.

Methodology: Mixed methods descriptive design, sample size was forty-two students.

Results: VCE effects on improving students’ physical assessment skills were evaluated by using Likert type question from 0 =”Not applicable” to 5= “Strongly agree”.26.2% (n=11) of students reported that the VCE was very effective in improving their nursing learning experiences. Findings reflected that 23.8% (n=10) reported “Strongly agree”, and 50% (n= 21) reported “Agree” in response to the VCE having improved their physical assessment skills. The majority of students 45.2% (n= 19) reported, “Agree” that (VCE) improved their written communication skills, versus 40.5% (n= 17) of students reported “Neutral” for the (VCE) effects on improving their oral communication skills.

Conclusion: Overall, students reported that the VCE provided a digital interaction with virtual patient’s scenarios that was effective in improving their learning experiences

Keywords: Virtual clinical excursions; Student nurse experience; E-learning; Undergraduate student nurses; Virtual clinical