The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

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This assignment is a proposal paper for the need for virtual simulation in a course “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health”. It includes a literature review along with a Force Field Analysis. The assignment must be completed in APA7, including a title page, executive summary, and reference page. All sources must be from the US, and noted within the last 5 years. The attached template must be used for the assignment. Also, full instructions are attached for what is required in this paper.

Develop a formal proposal using the attached Curriculum Technology Proposal Template that integrates the chosen emerging technology for a curricular change into the previously developed course, “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health.” The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

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1. Write an executive summary (suggested length of 1 page) that includes a synopsis of the key points of your proposal.

Note: The executive summary is written after you have completed your proposal; however, APA-style formatting should be referenced and used. And APA-style formatting requires this summary be placed at the opening of your proposal.

1. Complete a literature review of your curriculum technology proposal on the use of technology in education by doing the following:
2. Complete the literature review summary table in the attached “C922 Curriculum Technology Proposal Template” using five peer-reviewed articles published within the last five years that support your curriculum technology proposal. Include your literature review summary table as Table 1, and reference Table 1 in the narrative where the literature review findings are discussed.
3. Synthesize your literature review findings, including all five peer-reviewed articles you reviewed in part B1 and how the articles support your specific technology proposal. Draw connections between similar articles, and highlight any dissimilar or contradictory findings, if applicable.
4. Based on your literature review, discuss the need for further research or development relative to the proposed technology.
5. Complete a needs assessment and examine the current technology challenges by doing the following:
6. Describe the process used to conduct a curricular technology needs assessment using a gap analysis as outlined in Table 2 in the attached “C922 Curriculum Technology Proposal Template.”.
7. Identify three academic stakeholders (e.g., faculty, students, preceptors, IT personnel) and their roles in the gap analysis.
8. Explain methods of collaboration with stakeholders in interprofessional teams and why the methods would be effective.
9. Compare two current or emerging technologies by describing the advantages and disadvantages of each as they apply to “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health.”
10. Discuss three challenges with the current state of technology in the course “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health,” including examples for each challenge.
11. Explain how you will overcome the three challenges from part C3.
12. Summarize your findings of the curricular technology needs assessment.
13. Describe the collaboration with your stakeholders to reach a consensus on one technology from part C2.
14. Identify the emerging technology and complete a force field analysis to identify forces for and against your curriculum technology proposal using Table 3 in the attached “C922 Curriculum Technology Proposal Template.”
15. Collaborate with your preceptor and stakeholders to identify factors that could affect the adoption of your proposal by doing the following:
16. Analyze two internal and two external organizational factors that may facilitate or impede implementation.
17. Describe three forces that will facilitate integration of the identified emerging technology in the course “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health.”
18. Describe three forces that will impede integration of the identified emerging technology in the course “The Role of the BSN Nurse in Promoting Community Health.”
19. Identify a change theory appropriate for your technology integration and adoption.
20. Justify the selected change theory from part D2.
21. Describe potential resistance and barriers to the technology change.
22. Discuss how you plan to implement the change theory identified in part D2.

1. Write a conclusion focusing on the impact and significance of your proposal by doing the following:
2. Discuss the purpose and rationale of your proposal.
3. Explain how your proposal fills the identified curriculum needs gap.
4. Discuss why implementing this proposal is significant and the impact it will have on the broader field of nursing.
5. Incorporate the following components of APA style and formatting in your paper:

• bias-free language
• APA-specific rules regarding verb tense, voice, and perspective
• a title page and headers
• in-text citations and references
• APA-specific formatting rules for margins, spacing, numbering, and indentation for the title page and main body of your paper, including headers, bulleted and numbered lists, and tables and figures

1. Demonstrate professional communication in the content and presentation of your submission.

Executive Summary

This report examines the adoption and integration of virtual simulation technology in medical education curriculum. To begin with, a needs assessment process and force field analysis were conducted to identify facilitators and barriers to successful implementation. Then, the report identifies several forces that may facilitate the adoption of virtual simulation, including improved learning outcomes, increased student engagement and motivation, enhanced skills acquisition, increased availability and affordability of virtual simulation technology, and growing demand for medical professionals with advanced skills. The report has highlighted that there are several forces that could impede the adoption of virtual simulation, including resistance to change, lack of faculty training, and legal and ethical concerns surrounding malpractice liability.

Explained in detail within the report are ways to overcome these challenges. For example, the report recommends that organizations focus on education and communication, invest in faculty training and development, and establish clear policies and procedures to address legal and ethical concerns. The successful adoption and implementation of virtual simulation technology in medical education requires a concerted effort to address the identified facilitators and barriers. This are detailed in a whole section within this report. Largely, the entire report is a demonstration that medical education curriculum and healthcare organizations and institutions as a whole need to be open to changes especially in regard to technologies that would be resourceful in improving their operations in clinical settings and primarily in the provision of healthcare The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

 Literature Review

Limited Access to Clinical Settings

In their discussion on the importance and value of incorporating technologies in the medical school curriculums, Clarke (2021) observed that many medical students and healthcare professionals do not have access to clinical settings where they can observe and participate in real-world healthcare scenarios. They have further indicated that virtual simulations provide a safe and controlled environment for healthcare professionals to gain experience and improve their skills, regardless of their location or access to clinical settings. Arguably, the limited access to clinical settings has been identified as one of the significant challenges faced by healthcare professionals in community health. Adding on this, Eichel et al. (2022) mentioned that it is especially difficult for clinical practitioners who reside or work in remote or rural areas, where access to clinical settings is limited. In such situations, the researchers have explained, virtual simulation can be an essential tool in educating clinical practitioners and providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. According to Hoffman and Argeros (2021), virtual simulations offer a safe and controlled environment for clinical practitioners to learn and practice different healthcare scenarios. Importantly, these scenarios can be customized to meet the specific needs of the learners and provide them with hands-on experience without putting patients at risk. According to Huber (2022), the value in this capability is that this type of training is particularly useful in community health, where healthcare practitioners are needed to provide care in a wide range of settings, from home visits to mobile clinics. Research conducted by Clarke (2021) has shown that virtual simulation is an effective tool in educating clinical practitioners in community health. For example, in a study conducted by Eichel et al. (2022) found that virtual simulation was effective tool in improving the clinical skills and confidence of nursing students. The study compared traditional clinical learning with virtual simulation and found that virtual simulation provided a safe and effective learning environment that helped students develop their skills. In an entirely different study but which supports these preliminary findings, Clarke (2021) found that virtual simulation was efficient in teaching medical students clinical skills related to diagnosis and treatment. In this study, it was determined that virtual simulation helped students develop their cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills, which are essential for providing effective patient care.

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Customizable Scenarios

In their book focused on the development of curriculums for medical students at a time when technology dictates many aspects of medical care, Cailleau et al. (2023) highlighted the value of being able to increase customization in teaching. Drawing from this, the researchers explained that virtual simulations have become an increasingly popular tool for healthcare professionals to enhance their training and skill development. One of the main advantages of virtual simulations explained by these researchers is their flexibility and ability to create customizable scenarios that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of learners. In addition, simulations of this nature can be designed to mimic a wide range of healthcare scenarios, from routine procedures to complex emergencies. For example, a virtual simulation can be created to train healthcare professionals on administering medication to patients with different conditions or on performing a physical examination. These simulations are tailored to the specific needs of the learners, ensuring that they are practicing the skills they need to excel in their roles (Eichel et al., 2022)The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper. Moreover, virtual simulations provide personalized feedback to learners, which prove time to time to be very invaluable in helping them to improve their performance. Cailleau et al. (2023) have written in their article that feedback is provided in real-time while using virtual simulation. Doing this allows learners to adjust their actions and responses as they progress through the scenario. Needless to say, this capability provided by simulation aids these learners to identify areas of strength and weakness, which they can then focus on during future training sessions.

Hoffman and Argeros (2021) have written an article critiquing the reluctance by some medical educational institutions that are reluctant or slow at adopting the use of technologies such as virtual or augmented reality. In their analysis, also supported by Huber (2022), the researcher wrote that virtual simulations can also be used to create scenarios that are difficult or impossible to replicate in real life, for example rare or high-risk situations. A good example is when this technology is used to train healthcare professionals on how to respond to a chemical or biological attack, something that is very rare and whose chances of occurring are extremely slim. In these scenarios, virtual simulations provide a safe and controlled environment for healthcare professionals to practice their skills, without risking harm to themselves or others. Further into the authors analysis, mention has been made that virtual simulations is designed to accommodate a range of learning styles, making them a versatile tool for healthcare education. Simulations can, for example, incorporate visual, auditory, and tactile elements to engage learners and create a more immersive experience which ultimately helps learners to retain information better and develop their skills more effectively.

While virtual simulations are generally considered a useful tool for healthcare professionals to practice and develop their skills, there are some contrasting views or limitations to their effectiveness in certain contexts. One potential limitation of virtual simulations identified and discussed by Liaw et al. (2020) is that they may not accurately replicate the complexity and unpredictability of real-world healthcare settings. These researchers have noted that while virtual simulations can be tailored to specific scenarios, they are incapable to fully capture all the variables and challenges that healthcare professionals may encounter in a live setting (Cailleau et al., 2023). Given this, while virtual simulations provide a valuable training experience, it should be supplemented with real-world experience and mentorship. The same researchers also argued that a second potential limitation of virtual simulations is that they require access to appropriate technology and resources. In their analysis, the researchers stated that it required resources may not be available to all healthcare professionals or institutions especially those that have limited human, capital and financial resources. Commenting on the many challenges that the use of virtual simulation in medical school curriculums, Liaw et al. (2020) claim that this technology is costly to develop and implement and therefore out of reach for a majority of medical schools and healthcare providers. According to Eichel et al. (2022), some healthcare professionals prefer hands-on, experiential learning rather than simulated training placing yet another challenge for the adoption and implementation of the technology. Notably, while virtual simulations provide a safe and controlled environment for healthcare professionals to practice, some individuals feel that they need to experience real-world situations to fully develop their skills. Recognizing that there are many professionals in the medical and educational realms that are opposed to the adoption and use of virtual reality, Liaw et al. (2020) have written that despite the highlighted challenges, the technology still remains a valuable tool for healthcare education and training. Virtual simulations can closely mimic real-world scenarios, provide personalized feedback, and offer a cost-effective training method. Therefore, while acknowledging their limitations, virtual simulations continue to be an important and useful training tool for healthcare professionals.

Cost-Effective Training

According to Ker, Hogg and Maran (2021), traditional healthcare training methods are comparatively costly and time-consuming in the long term because they often require travel expenses, specialized equipment, and personnel. Arguably, virtual simulations can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional training methods, as they require minimal resources and can be accessed remotely by multiple learners at once. Cost-effective training in healthcare is essential in ensuring that healthcare professionals are adequately trained and equipped to provide the best care for patients. However, traditional training methods are, by comparison, costly, time-consuming, and often require specialized equipment and personnel. In their article, Hoffman and Argeros (2021) have argued that virtual simulation allows healthcare professionals to gain hands-on experience in a safe and controlled environment. The simulation is customized to meet the specific needs of learners, providing a personalized and engaging learning experience and can be accessed remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing expenses related to equipment and personnel. Eichel et al. (2022) also note that among the numerous benefits associated with virtual reality technology is that it reduces the numerous activities associated with training such as intricate planning, demonstrations using models among others. Adding their view on the resource requirement in a virtual reality environment, Hoffman and Argeros (2021) were fast to point on the reduced use of cumbersome simulators, expensive mannequins and real cadavers. As a whole, an issue that is emphasized by researchers and professionals in the medical fields is that simulation has made teaching and training easier and lessened the burden of preparing young medical graduates for the real world. The use of virtual simulation is especially powerful because it enables healthcare professionals to learn and practice skills and procedures repeatedly. The act of repeating medical procedures because it speeds up the aspects of experience and confidence, two key element required by clinical practitioners who are dealing with human subjects The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Risk-Free Learning

Healthcare professionals play a critical role in patient safety and care. However, mistakes do happen, and these sometimes have serious consequences for patients. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare professionals to be well-trained and confident in their skills to avoid mistakes that can harm patients. One approach to improving healthcare professional training and confidence is through the use of virtual simulations (Plotzky et al., 2021)The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper. Virtual simulations are computer-based scenarios that replicate real-life situations, allowing healthcare professionals to practice and improve their skills in a risk-free environment. Virtual simulations provide a safe and controlled environment where healthcare professionals are allowed to mistakes, learn from them, and develop their expertise. In their explanation on the importance of these mistakes, Hoffman and Argeros (2021) stated that simulations is used to train healthcare professionals on emergency situations such as cardiac arrest, stroke, or trauma and by practicing in a simulated environment, healthcare professionals learn and hone their critical decision-making and communication skills, which are crucial during emergency situations. This technology is cited as very resourceful in training complex and intricate procedures. Medical students in contemporary medical school settings trained how to use various surgical tools and participate in surgery through simulation. The benefit in this as explained by Plotzky et al. (2021) is that no real human is put at any risk, the virtual reality used in the training takes the learners in a transport of the entire human anatomy enhancing their learning, understanding and skills in performing surgeries.

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Need for Further Research or Development

The need for further research and development relative to the proposed technology of virtual simulation in community health is significant. While this technology has shown promise in improving healthcare outcomes, there are still several areas that need to be addressed to fully realize its potential. One area where further research is needed is in the development of more realistic virtual simulations. While current simulations provide a valuable learning experience, they often lack the realism needed to fully prepare healthcare professionals for real-world situations and this can result in a gap between the skills learned in a virtual environment and the skills needed in the actual workplace. Developing more realistic virtual simulations that closely mimic the actual clinical environment would help to bridge this gap and better prepare healthcare professionals for real-world situations. Another area that requires further research is the assessment of the effectiveness of virtual simulations in improving healthcare outcomes. While there is some evidence that virtual simulations can improve skills acquisition and retention, more research is needed to determine whether this translates into improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, research is needed to identify the most effective ways to integrate virtual simulations into existing healthcare training programs. Lastly, there is a need for further research in the development of more advanced virtual simulation technologies. For example, incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning into virtual simulations could allow for more personalized and adaptive training experiences that are tailored to the individual needs of healthcare professionals. This could lead to more efficient and effective training and ultimately improve healthcare outcomes. The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

Needs Assessment

Need-Gap Analysis

A curricular technology needs assessment is a process of identifying the current and desired technology tools and resources required to support the teaching and learning process. The gap analysis approach compares the current technology resources to the desired technology resources and identifies any gaps or discrepancies that need to be addressed. To conduct a curricular technology needs assessment using a gap analysis, the following steps can be taken: The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

1. Identify the scope and purpose of the assessment. This involves defining the scope of the assessment, including the specific courses or subject areas, and the purpose of the assessment, such as improving student learning outcomes or enhancing teaching efficiency.
2. Gather data. This step is about collecting information about the current technology tools and resources used in the curriculum. This may include software, hardware, learning management systems, multimedia resources, and other digital tools. Also, gather information about the desired technology resources and how they can support the learning goals and objectives.

• Analyze data. At this step, a comparison of the current technology resources is done with the desired technology resources and identification of any gaps or discrepancies highlighted. This may involve a review of the curriculum objectives and student learning outcomes and consultations with teachers, instructional designers, and other stakeholders.

1. Prioritize needs. This involves determining which needs are the most critical and these are prioritized accordingly. This measure involves considering the impact on student learning, the cost and feasibility of implementing new technology, and the potential benefits to teaching and learning.
2. Develop action steps. Specific action steps are then identified to meet the identified need-gaps and involves measures such as procuring new technology tools, providing professional development for teachers and staff, revising curriculum materials, or adjusting instructional practices.
3. Implementation and monitoring. The last of the six steps is to implement the action steps and to monitor the effectiveness of the changes made. This last step involves assessing student learning outcomes, soliciting feedback from teachers and students, and making adjustments as needed. The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

Collaboration with Stakeholders

Academic Stakeholders

The first class of academic stakeholders is the faculty members. These are the subject matter experts who design and deliver the curriculum, and as such, play a crucial role in the gap analysis. The faculty members have a deep understanding of the learning objectives and the resources required to meet those objectives. Moreover, they provide insights into the current technology tools and resources used in the curriculum and help identify gaps in those resources and, in addition provide input on the desired technology resources needed to enhance student learning outcomes. Importantly, these stakeholders contribute to the prioritization of need-gaps and the development of action steps to address them.

The second class is the IT personnel. Information Technology (IT) personnel are responsible for providing technical support and maintaining the technology infrastructure used in the curriculum. They play a critical role in the gap analysis by providing information about the current technology resources and identifying areas where updates or enhancements may be necessary. IT personnel provide insights into emerging technologies that could be used to enhance teaching and learning and they also contribute to the prioritization of need-gaps based on technical feasibility, cost, and other considerations. What’s more, the IT personnel provide input on the development of action steps to address the need-gaps, such as procuring new technology tools and providing technical training to faculty members and staff.

The last group of stakeholders are arguably the most important; students. Students are the primary beneficiaries of the curriculum and play an essential role in the gap analysis (Ker, Hogg & Maran (2021)The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper. Students are the ones that provide feedback on the current technology resources used in the curriculum and identify areas where improvements could be made. Furthermore, they provide insights into the usability and effectiveness of technology tools and resources and suggest new tools that could enhance their learning experience. These learners highly contribute to the prioritization of need-gaps by identifying the most critical areas that need improvement. Additionally, these stakeholders also provide input on the development of action steps to address the need-gaps, such as incorporating new technology tools into the curriculum and providing training to faculty members and staff on how to use them effectively.

Collaboration with Stakeholders

Interprofessional collaboration involves working with stakeholders from different disciplines and professions to achieve common goals. Effective collaboration leads to better patient outcomes, improved quality of care, and increased efficiency. To collaborate effectively with stakeholders in interprofessional teams, several methods can be employed. One of the key aspects of effective collaboration is clear communication. When working with interprofessional teams, stakeholders should use clear and concise language, avoid jargon, and actively listen to one another. They should also use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and foster understanding, which promotes teamwork. Another important method is shared decision-making which involves working collaboratively with stakeholders to make decisions that benefit everyone. In interprofessional teams, stakeholders should share their expertise and work together to create a plan of care that is inclusive of everyone’s opinions and needs. Shared decision-making fosters trust and respect between stakeholders and encourages team members to work together towards a common goal. Establishing common goals is yet another crucial aspect of collaborating with stakeholders in interprofessional teams. This involves identifying the objectives that need to be accomplished and setting targets that everyone agrees on. Establishing common goals promotes teamwork, helps stakeholders focus their efforts, and encourages everyone to work towards achieving the same outcomes The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Regular meetings are also an effective way to collaborate with stakeholders in interprofessional teams and these meetings should be scheduled on a regular basis to provide an opportunity for stakeholders to communicate with each other, share updates, and discuss any concerns or issues. According to Ker, Hogg and Maran (2021), meetings should be used to establish goals, make decisions, and provide feedback on progress. Regular meetings help to build relationships and promote effective communication between stakeholders. Finally, the use of technology tools such as video conferencing, messaging apps, and project management software are effective in facilitating collaboration with stakeholders in interprofessional teams. These tools allow stakeholders to communicate with each other remotely, share documents and information, and track progress towards goals. Technology tools can help to improve communication, facilitate information sharing, and increase efficiency The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Comparing Technologies

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that provides an immersive experience by creating a simulated environment that users can interact with. One of its advantages is that it can be used for a variety of applications, such as gaming, education, and training. VR can also enhance learning and retention by providing hands-on, experiential learning experiences. However, it can be expensive to implement and maintain, requires specialized hardware, and can cause discomfort or motion sickness in some users.

Augmented Reality (AR), on the other hand, is a technology that overlays digital information onto the physical environment, enhancing the user’s perception of reality. AR can be accessed on a range of devices, including smartphones and tablets, and can be used in various applications, such as education, training, and entertainment. However, the technology is still in its early stages, and there are limitations to what can be achieved with current hardware and software. It can also be challenging to create effective AR experiences that are both engaging and informative, and may require a significant amount of development time and resources.

Current Technology Challenges

Current or Emerging Technologies

Access to Technology is one of the main challenges of using technology in education. Some students may not have access to the necessary technology, such as computers or high-speed internet. This challenge has the potential to limit their ability to participate in online activities and complete coursework. Technical Issues also arise when using technology in education. For example, software may crash, or hardware may malfunction, which can disrupt learning and create frustration for students and instructors alike. Digital Literacy is another challenge related to the use of technology in education as some students may not be familiar with the tools and technologies used in the course, which can make it difficult for them to participate fully. For instance, a student who has never used a learning management system (LMS) may struggle to navigate the platform and access course materials. Instructors can address this challenge by providing training and support for students, such as tutorials or office hours dedicated to technology-related questions The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Overcoming Challenges

Overcoming the challenges of technology in education requires a multifaceted approach that addresses each challenge individually. There are several strategies that have been proposed by scholars. The first is access to technology. To overcome the challenge of access to technology, instructors can explore several options. For instance, providing access to technology in a computer lab, library, or classroom can guarantee that students without computers at home can still participate. Instructors can also consider providing laptops or tablets on loan to students who need them. Additionally, instructors can design their courses to be accessible on a range of devices, including smartphones, to guarantee that students participate even without access to a computer. The second approach is addressing the emerging technical issues. Technical issues are an unavoidable aspect of using technology in education, but instructors should take steps to minimize their impact. For example, providing students with clear instructions and guidelines for troubleshooting common issues helps them resolve problems quickly. Instructors should communicate with IT support staff to ensure that technical issues are addressed promptly. Also, backing up important data and having redundancy plans would mitigate the impact of technical issues. To address the challenge of digital literacy, instructors should provide training and support for students. For example, they could create tutorials and resources that explain how to use the technology tools and platforms used in the course. Also, they can offer office hours or online forums where students ask questions and get help with technology-related issues. Furthermore, the instructors could also provide ongoing feedback and support throughout the course to confirm that students feel comfortable and confident using the technology tools. Needless to say, overcoming the challenges of technology in education requires a proactive approach that addresses access to technology, technical issues, and digital literacy. Providing support and resources for students ensures that instructors use technology to enhance learning and not to hinder in any way.

Summary of Curricular Technology Needs Assessment

The curricular technology needs assessment revealed that virtual simulation technology could address the identified gaps and challenges in technology integration in the course. Collaborating with faculty members, IT personnel, and students, virtual simulation was selected as the technology of choice for integration into the curriculum. Virtual simulation was found to be compatible with existing infrastructure, user-friendly, and met the needs of all stakeholders. It was also identified as a valuable tool for enhancing student learning and engagement. The virtual simulation technology will be incorporated into the course design, and students will have access to the simulation lab, where they can apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. Faculty members will provide training and support to ensure that students feel confident using the technology tools. The virtual simulation technology will enhance the learning experience by providing students with a realistic and interactive environment to develop their skills and knowledge The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Factors and Forces to Consider

Organizational Factors

1. Internal Factors

Organizational Culture: Culture within an organization by far has impacts to facilitate or hamper the introduction of new technologies. Take for example when an organization has developed a culture that places value on innovation and experimentation. In such a scenario, chances are that innovations and change projects will be embraced and accepted. Quite the opposite, if such an organization is averse to change whereby changes are perceived with negativity, it is highly likely that any changes such as the introduction of simulation and virtual reality would be opposed. Huber (2022) has explained that the resistance to change usually occurs in organizations that are hierarchical as these are more likely to impede the implementation of changes The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Resource Allocation: Resource allocation has direct and indirect impacts on implementation of new innovations and adoption of new industry standards such as the use of virtual simulation in teaching medical classes. Organizations open and willing to invest appropriate resources and infrastructure such as equipment and support software would go a long way in supporting the proposal for a virtual simulation to aid in teaching. Conversely, where resources are scarce or not provided by the organization, new technologies and innovations that would potentially bring positive change are rejected.

1. External Factors

Regulatory Environment: The regulatory environment in which an organization operates has the potential to slow down the implementation of virtual simulation technology. In some jurisdictions, there may be strict regulations that govern the use of virtual simulation technology in medical education. If the regulatory environment is favorable, it can facilitate the implementation of virtual simulation technology. Nevertheless, if the regulatory environment is unfavorable, it can hamper the implementation of virtual simulation technology.

Competitive Landscape: The adoption of virtual simulation technology can be influenced by the competitive environment in which an organization functions. In case competitors have already implemented this technology, it becomes necessary for the organization to do so as well to maintain its competitiveness. On the contrary, in situations where virtual simulation is not being adopted by competing organisations, this may not be perceived as a priority and the likely outcome is that the proposed changes would be ignored and status quo maintained. However, in a situation whereby competitors invest heavily in these technology and offer support for it, organizations that are otherwise reluctant to adapt to these changes and new outfits would find it challenging to catchup. It is therefore necessary that leaders in these organizations be open minded to technological changes and create an environment where these changes can be made, effectively communicated and supported The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Forces for Integration

Increasingly, healthcare organizations are moving to virtual simulations in their medical training. The reason why these organizations are moving towards this direction is to first of all keep up with technological changes and improve operations. Also, these changes are prompted by a need to stay competitive. The integration of simulation is, therefore, being caused by a variety of forces.

Increased Demand for Technology-Enhanced Learning

There has been an unprecedented demand for technology-enhanced learning in many organizations and industries. This is particularly so in healthcare where savvy organizations recognize the intrinsic benefits of using simulation to educate learners. According to Clarke (2021), students have today become more tech-savvy and the introduction of tools such as virtual reality to promote learning is something that would be readily accepted and embraced. To say the least, the use of simulation would be attractive to contemporary learners because of benefits such as being more engaging, interactive, and ability to offer personalized learning experience. Needless to say, as organizations and academic institutions continue to demand for technology-enhanced learning it is predicted by researchers that medical institutions will more than likely adapt and set standards for using technologies such as simulation using virtual reality.

Advancements in Virtual Simulation Technology

In recent years, virtual simulation technology has made great strides and the world has seen major developments in hardware, software, and interactive interfaces related to this technology. Arguably, it is these developments and improvements in existing technologies that have made VR realistic, more immersive, and effective further qualifying it as a potent and cost-effective tool for providing education especially those related to practical endeavors such as surgeries and diagnosis. In addition to this, the technology becomes relatively cheaper when perceived from a longer term perspective. Ideally, the initial costs of setting up the simulation and virtual reality resources are high but once they are installed, they serve the institutions over an extended period of time making them effectively cheaper than the traditional methods.

Benefits of Virtual Simulation Technology

There are numerous advantages that are associated with the use of virtual reality especially in simulating medical situations such as emergency room management, surgeries and diagnosis. Clarke (2021) admitted that the use of virtual reality leads to improved learning outcomes, patients’ safety and flexibility for students. The justification for this is that learners are able to engage simulated practices thereby helping them hone their clinical skills and the improved experience becomes invaluable when working with real patients. Logically, when medical students are recruited in healthcare organizations with necessary experience and practical skills, the health outcomes for patients is guaranteed to be improved. Ideally, the rise in demand for virtual reality technology and other related technologies for teaching and learning and also the fact that these technologies are associated with many benefits some of which are highlighted points towards the forces they have created and which are driving their massive adoption. Going forward, as healthcare organizations continue to seek continuous improvements in operations, they recognize the value in investing in students in medical schools and the concepts of simulation and virtual reality have especially become valuable additions The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Challenges to Integration

Ker, Hogg and Maran (2021) have observed that while the integration of virtual simulation in medical education offers many benefits, there are several forces that impede its adoption and implementation including resistance to change, lack of faculty training, and legal and ethical concerns. The resistance to change is one major impediment to virtual simulation adoption. Whenever new technologies are developed, most organizations and people in general tend to be hesitant to accepting them with most of them seeking the comfort of status quo maintenance. In truth, this resistance is in most cases fear of the unknown. There is also the awareness that changes bring with them a need for learning new skills and dealing with the risks that the new technologies present. The fear and resistance to change in the case of medical educational programs could be overcome through proper communication to all stakeholders regarding the proposed changes. Education and communication of the new technologies would make everyone understand the importance of these proposed changes or additions and how they would impact the organization in the long run.

Another force that may hinder the adoption of simulation in medical education is the lack of faculty training. Many faculty members may not have experience with virtual simulation or may not feel confident in their ability to integrate it effectively into the curriculum. This can lead to a lack of support for the technology and a reluctance to use it in the classroom. Addressing this challenge requires organizations to invest in faculty training and development. Doing this would involve providing hands-on training with virtual simulation technology, offering professional development opportunities to learn about the latest advancements, and providing ongoing support to address any challenges or issues that arise. Arguably, providing faculty with the necessary tools and support would make them gain confidence in their ability to use virtual simulation effectively and incorporate it into the curriculum The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Finally, legal and ethical concerns are a major factor that could slow down or obstruct the adoption of virtual simulation in medical education. One of the most significant concerns is the risk of malpractice liability. While virtual simulation offers a safe and controlled environment for medical students to practice and improve their skills, there is always the risk of a mistake or error occurring and such an event could potentially lead to legal challenges and concerns about liability. This issue can be best addressed by organizations ensuring that they have appropriate policies and procedures in place to address any legal or ethical issues that may arise. Key measures involve establishing clear guidelines for the use of virtual simulation technology, confirming that students are aware of their responsibilities and limitations when using the technology, and implementing effective risk management strategies. Addressing these concerns head-on makes organizations minimize the risks associated with virtual simulation and provide a safe and effective learning environment for medical students.

Change Theory

Justification of Change Theory

For the integration and adoption of virtual simulation technology in medical education, the Kotter’s Eight-Step Change Model is an appropriate change theory. The model focuses on eight steps that organizations can follow to successfully manage change, starting with establishing a sense of urgency and ending with anchoring new approaches in the organization’s culture. The Kotter model is appropriate for this proposal because it provides a structured and comprehensive approach to change management, which is necessary for successful integration and adoption of virtual simulation technology. The model emphasizes the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and leadership, which are critical factors for the successful implementation of any new technology.

Potential Resistance to the Technology

However, potential resistance and barriers to the technology change may arise during the implementation process. Some faculty members and medical professionals may be resistant to change and may not see the value in adopting virtual simulation technology. In addition, there may be logistical and financial barriers to the implementation of the technology, such as the cost of acquiring the necessary equipment and the need for specialized training The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

Plans to Implement Change Theory

To implement the Kotter’s Eight-Step Change Model, the nursing school will first establish a sense of urgency by communicating the need for change and the benefits of virtual simulation technology to all stakeholders. The school will then form a coalition of individuals who are committed to the change, including faculty members, students, and administrative staff. This coalition will work together to develop a vision for the change and a detailed plan for implementation. After, the school will communicate the vision and plan for the change to all stakeholders, providing ongoing education and training to faculty and students to build their knowledge and skills with virtual simulation technology. The school will also empower faculty and students to act on the vision by encouraging experimentation with the technology in the curriculum and providing them with the necessary resources and support. Once this step is completed, the school will create short-term wins to demonstrate the effectiveness of virtual simulation technology and continue to build momentum for the change. Later the school will consolidate gains and produce more change by embedding virtual simulation technology into the curriculum and continually evaluating its effectiveness. Finally, the nursing school will anchor the changes in the nursing school’s culture and ensure that virtual simulation technology is an ongoing part of the curriculum.

Conclusion

All things considered, this proposal highlights the adoption and integration of virtual simulation technology in medical education as a means of addressing the current curriculum needs gap. The proposal was developed based on a needs assessment process and force field analysis, which identified the potential facilitators and barriers to successful implementation. The purpose and rationale of this proposal is to enhance the quality of medical education by leveraging the benefits of virtual simulation technology. Virtual simulation offers a safe and effective learning environment for medical students, allowing them to practice and refine their clinical skills without putting patients at risk. The proposal fills the identified curriculum needs gap by addressing the growing demand for medical professionals with advanced skills and the need for safe and effective learning environments that can accommodate the increasing number of students. More importantly, implementing this proposal is significant as it has the potential to revolutionize the broader field of nursing by improving the quality of medical education and enhancing the skills and knowledge of future medical professionals The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper.

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References

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Liaw, S. Y., Ooi, S. W., Rusli, K. D. B., Lau, T. C., Tam, W. W. S., & Chua, W. L. (2020). Nurse-physician communication team training in virtual reality versus live simulations: randomized controlled trial on team communication and teamwork attitudes. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 22(4), e17279. https://preprints.jmir.org/preprint/17279

Plotzky, C., Lindwedel, U., Sorber, M., Loessl, B., König, P., Kunze, C., … & Meng, M. (2021). Virtual reality simulations in nurse education: A systematic mapping review. Nurse education today, 101, 104868. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2021.104868 The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper

 Table 2

Curriculum Technology Need-Gap Analysis

Describe the process used to conduct a curricular technology needs assessment using a gap analysis as outlined in Table 2

Table 3

Force Field Analysis

The Virtual Simulation In Community Health Essay Paper