About the project
Healthcare education faces a growing need for new, flexible, and cost-effective teaching methods. Today’s students are motivated by innovative approaches to learning, and educational outcomes can be enhanced by combining different pedagogical methods with modern technology. At the same time, healthcare professionals need continuous competence development to keep pace with evolving healthcare practices and technological advancements.Virtual Reality (VR) creates realistic learning environments where users can practice clinical scenarios, develop decision-making skills, and strengthen their competencies in a safe and supportive setting. Research shows that VR can improve preparedness for complex healthcare situations and contribute to higher quality of care.
The GERT (GERontological Simulation Suit) enables users to experience the physical limitations that many older adults encounter in their daily lives. This hands-on experience promotes a deeper understanding of older adults’ living conditions and fosters a more empathetic and person-centred approach to care.
Together, VR and GERT offer new opportunities to create realistic and effective learning experiences for the healthcare workforce of the future.
Project goal
The project aims to provide teaching staff with opportunities for professional development and to explore how new, complementary teaching methods can be integrated into future education. The project will also evaluate the learning outcomes of age-simulation suits (GERT) and virtual reality applications. User testing will be conducted to ensure both technical functionality and pedagogical effectiveness. In addition, practical guidelines and manuals will be developed to support the long-term use and implementation of VR and GERT in educational settings.UN's Sustainable Development Goals
Viveka Öling-Wärnå
Project Researcher