Perceptions, Strategies, and Challenges of Nursing Students in Virtual Simulation: Concurrent Mixed-Method Study

E-learning methods have emerged as a promising solution for universities. This research explores the utilization of virtual simulation in nursing education, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where synchronous online learning has become crucial. Wesleyan University- the Philippines, College of Nursing has adopted virtual simulation as a pedagogical strategy to enhance nursing students' competency in clinical settings. However, little is known about students' perceptions of this innovative approach. To address this gap, a concurrent mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The study found that nursing students generally had a moderately positive perception of virtual simulation as a learning modality. Notably, age, sex, and year/level of the respondents did not significantly correlate with their perceptions, suggesting that virtual simulation is accessible and acceptable across various demographics. The qualitative analysis revealed four major themes: innovative technology, challenges, flexible strategies, and perceptions, highlighting the multifaceted nature of virtual simulation implementation. Virtual simulation emerged as a valuable tool in nursing education, especially in skill-based online courses. It offers flexibility, accessibility, and the potential for enhancing information acquisition and clinical thinking. The findings indicate that nursing students can benefit from virtual simulation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person clinical experiences may be limited. The research findings suggest that the implementation of virtual simulation can be tailored to the specific needs of students. As the pandemic continues to reshape education, virtual simulation stands as a promising approach to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills in nursing education.