Exploring school nurses' experiences of a metaverse-based infectious disease simulation training: qualitative study

TL;DR

This study explores how school nurses in Korea experienced metaverse-based training for infectious diseases, finding it engaging but with technical and accessibility challenges.

Contribution

The study introduces metaverse-based simulation training as a novel approach for infectious disease education in school settings.

Findings

Participants found MBST engaging and beneficial for understanding infectious disease management.

Technical issues and digital literacy gaps were significant barriers to effective training.

MBST has potential to enhance preparedness but requires better infrastructure and support for real-world application.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore school nurses’ experiences and perceptions of metaverse-based simulation training (MBST) for infectious disease, focusing on its educational value and applicability in real school settings.

A qualitative study was conducted using focus group interviews with ten school nurses in Yangsan, Republic of Korea, between December 2024 and January 2025. Data were analyzed using an inductive approach informed by grounded theory, including open coding and constant comparison.

Four themes and ten categories emerged, including positive experiences of immersion and self-directed learning, negative experiences related to deviation from educational purpose, and factors influencing field application. Participants found MBST engaging and helpful for enhancing understanding, despite challenges such as technical issues, digital literacy gaps, and accessibility concerns.

MBST shows strong potential to improve infectious disease preparedness among school nurses and other school personnel, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and support.