Acceptability Of Virtual Reality Research Articles

Virtual Reality in Samarkand’s Silk Road Museums

This study explores the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) technologies to extend the reach of museum exhibitions in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, by developing virtual exhibits through collaboration between Lublin University of Technology and local museums. The study involved creating a virtual exhibition of 3D-scanned artefacts from three Samarkand museums. An exploratory survey was conducted with museum professionals and Generation Z individuals to assess VR’s complementary role to traditional exhibitions. Findings. The survey revealed broad acceptance of VR as a supplementary tool, with 79% of professionals endorsing it. Generation Z participants showed high engagement, with VR enhancing their interest in traditional visits. VR technologies significantly improve access to Silk Road heritage, providing an immersive, interactive experience that traditional methods cannot offer alone. The findings underscore VR’s potential to attract diverse audiences, particularly tech-savvy younger generations. Integrating VR into museum exhibitions can enhance cultural heritage dissemination, support educational initiatives, and foster a greater global appreciation for Silk Road artifacts. Future research should explore long-term impacts on visitor behavior and museum attendance.

Assessing Virtual Reality in Oil Painting Education: A Perspective from the Technology Acceptance Model

This research assessed the integration of virtual reality (VR) into oil painting education through the lens of the technology acceptance model (TAM). The study, limited to Guangdong Province, China, drew responses largely from educators and learners and modularly evaluated perceived educational value (PEV), perceived technological accessibility (PTA), intention to adopt VR (IAVR), and VR utilisation in education (VRUE). Based on a crosssectional survey of 373 respondents, this study deployed structural equation modelling (SEM) to test five hypotheses. Both PEV and PTA significantly influence IAVR, which subsequently affects VRUE. PTA had a direct interface with VRUE, whereas PEV did not. This suggests that while the educational merits accrued through VR have decreased, user-friendly VR solutions is the more immediate determinant of the actualisation of VR in education. This research enriches the extant literature by extending the TAM to an arts educational environment and underscores the implications for the adoption of emergent technologies for the augmentation of pedagogical practises. This study also provides practical implications for stakeholders in educational technology, as it argues that the key to widespread acceptance of VR in educational settings lies in the availability of user-friendly, comprehensive, and accessible VR solutions.

Exploring the knowledge and awareness on applications of virtual reality and augmented reality technology among dental healthcare professionals - a crosssectional survey.

To assess the knowledge and awareness of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technology in dentistry. A questionnaire survey-based study was conducted using Google forms on a sample of 273 dental healthcare professionals (DHCP) from October- November 2023, after obtaining ethical approval. A validated questionnaire, divided into three sections, was used to assess the knowledge and awareness of dental healthcare professionals on virtual and augmented reality. Section A was about demographic statistics, section B assessed knowledge and awareness regarding VR and AR and section C consisted of future acceptability of VR and AR among DHCP. The frequency of each question was reported in percentages. To assess the difference of knowledge and awareness of AR and VR among different specialties of DHCP, one-way ANOVA test was applied and in case of significant results pairwise comparison was performed by post-hoc Tukey test. There was a statistically significant difference of knowledge (1.40 ± 0.49) among different dental healthcare professionals. On pairwise comparison, a statistically significant difference (p = ˂0.05) of knowledge and awareness of AR and VR was found among dental specialist and other dental health professionals. A concerning lack of knowledge and awareness among dental healthcare professionals regarding AR and VR technology in dentistry was found. Interestingly, within the spectrum of specialties, dental specialists demonstrated a comparatively higher awareness than their counterparts in other specialties. Addressing barriers, notably a lack of knowledge, is crucial for successful technology adoption in dental education and practice.

User acceptance of neuroanatomy virtual reality course: Contrasting views between undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Virtual Reality (VR) offers cost-efficient and effective tools for spatial 3-dimensional neuroanatomy learning. Enhancing users-system relationship is necessary for successful adoption of the system. The current study aimed to evaluate students' acceptance of VR for neuroanatomy. An exploratory qualitative case study based on Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework carried out at [details omitted for double-anonymized peer review]. Participants in this study were students participating in a VR session, followed by a semi-structured interview. Deductive framework analysis employed to retrieve students' perspective and experience. A total of six undergraduate and 13 postgraduate students participated in this study. The following UTAUT constructs validated to be significant: Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy and Facilitating Conditions. System usability, depth of lesson and hardware optimizations are among concern for further improvements. In conclusion, students are accepting VR as a neuroanatomy learning resource. The findings of this research highlight the importance of system performance and user-centred approach in technology development for educational purposes.

Virtual Reality Relaxation for Stress in Young Adults: A Remotely Delivered Pilot Study in Participants’ Homes

AbstractHigh stress levels experienced by young adults were exacerbated by COVID-19 and traditional stress management techniques can be challenging. Virtual reality (VR) relaxation appears promising and is accessible remotely; however, research on young adults is limited, especially in naturalistic settings. This remotely delivered and controlled mixed-methods study investigated feasibility and acceptability of VR relaxation for young adults (N = 23, mean age = 22.96) at home during the pandemic. VR participants (N = 11) were asked to complete daily VR relaxation sessions (scenes of virtual beaches, mountains, the sea, and more) for a 14-day intervention period, alongside visual analogue scales (VAS) of psychological well-being pre- and post-VR sessions. Post-intervention, VR participants completed semi-structured interviews. Control participants (N = 12) received no intervention. Both groups completed outcome measures of psychological well-being pre- and post-intervention periods to evaluate feasibility of remote data collection. VAS results indicated acceptability of daily VR, with significant short-term increases in relaxation, happiness, and connectedness to nature, and decreases in stress, anxiety, and sadness within VR participants. VR usage and 100% completion of outcome measures indicated feasibility of VR relaxation and remote data collection. Qualitative findings suggest participants found the VR relaxing, but interest diminished over time and technical issues hindered user experience. This suggests a more informal, less prescriptive frequency of VR use may be more appealing for young adults, although adherence may relate to technical issues. Greater interactivity and remote technical assistance within VR could increase engagement. Future research should investigate optimal frequency of use, longer-term impact, and technical issues with a larger sample.

Virtual Reality as a Tool for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Children with an autism spectrum disorder tend to lose focus quickly. The possibility of displaying changeable, three-dimensional environments in virtual reality can increase the user's concentration time due to the stimuli used. Through the use of virtual reality, an individual assistant can be provided for the daily care and encouragement of learning for children with autism spectrum disorders. To investigate the feasibility of a virtual assistant and the acceptability of virtual reality among autistic children, a review of the literature and conducted studies is undertaken. The selection, identification and evaluation of the relevant research results is carried out according to the preferred reporting items of the systemic literature search.

P559 Descriptive observational pilot study about the use of Virtual Reality (VR) in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and biological treatment

Abstract Background Virtual reality (VR) is a neurosensory experience in which simulated images and spaces are created where a person has the sensation of being and being able to function within them. A high percentage of patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) receive intravenous biological treatments in a day hospital (HDD) regime. VR has been used in some fields of medicine, such as Oncology, demonstrating its usefulness in reducing chronic symptoms such as pain or anxiety. However, we don’t have any literature demonstrating the applicability of VR in IBD. Methods Descriptive observational pilot study based on an initial cohort of 87 patients obtained from the HDD of the IBD Unit. Satisfaction and acceptance of VR through the use of 3D glasses and the reduction of negative symptoms during intravenous biological treatment in patients with IBD in HDD have been assessed. Results 43 patients (52.4%) used VR and completed the study. The mean age was 45.3 years. The validated IBDQ-32 questionnaire on quality of life in IBD obtained a mean score of 169 points (range: 32-224). In the comparative analysis of the results of the questionnaires before and after the use of VR, a statistically significant improvement was observed in the patients' view of the ability of VR to achieve a reduction in stress (65% patients improve; p: 0.0021) and pain (VAS, 54% p. improve; p<0.05) during treatment. Likewise, with the applicability of VR in other areas of medicine (53%; p: 0.05) and with the possibility of improving well-being during the stay in the HDD (56%; p: 0.0014). No side effects were reported with the use of the 3D glasses. Conclusion The use of VR could be a useful complementary tool to improve the stay of patients with IBD on HDD during treatment with intravenous biologic drugs. To this end, we believe it is appropriate to complete our research and obtain more data through other studies along the same lines.

Assessing virtual reality acceptance in long-term care facilities: a quantitative study with older adults

Purpose Our study aimed to investigate the factors associated with the acceptance of virtual reality (VR) games among older adults living in LTC, with a particular emphasis on identifying social and individual factors that have been overlooked in existing technology acceptance models. Materials and methods We conducted VR gaming sessions, followed by a composite questionnaire to explore the factors associated with the acceptance of VR games among residents of LTC with a focus on technology acceptance models (TAM) and social factors derived from Selective Optimization with Compensation (SOC) theory and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (SST). Results We studied 20 older adults aged 65 and older. Participants were moderately sedentary, with the majority of them having prior gaming experience. Participants with prior gaming experience had higher mean scores in most SOC theory and SST subscales, except for elective selection. Participants perceived the technology as useful and easy to use, with no heightened gaming-related anxiety. Significant correlations were found between perceived ease of use and selection strategies, and between attitudes towards gaming and elective selection strategies. No significant score differences were observed between male and female participants. Conclusions The positive correlation between VR acceptance and using SOC strategies suggests a positive response to straightforward experiences. Our study highlights VR exergaming’s potential benefits for encouraging LTC residents’ engagement in valued activities and pursuing goals. Moreover, social theories of aging can inform technology acceptance and guide the design and marketing of VR exergames to better suit older adults’ needs and preferences in LTC. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION The findings of this study have important implications for rehabilitation programs aimed at enhancing physical activity (PA) and engagement among older adults living in long-term care (LTC) facilities. The use of virtual reality (VR) games can be an important tool to promote PA and improve the overall well-being of LTC residents. Based on the results, the following implications can be drawn: Integrating VR exergaming in rehabilitation: The positive perception of VR technology’s usefulness and ease of use among older adults in LTC suggests that VR exergaming can be effectively integrated into rehabilitation programs. Healthcare professionals and rehabilitation specialists in LTC facilities can consider incorporating VR-based exercise routines and gaming sessions to motivate and engage residents in physical activities. By doing so, they can create enjoyable and interactive rehabilitation experiences that may lead to improved adherence to exercise regimens. Addressing social factors for VR acceptance: Our study highlights the significance of social factors derived from theories of aging, such as Selective Optimization with Compensation (SOC) and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (SST), in influencing VR acceptance among LTC residents. Rehabilitation programs should take into account these social aspects and create a supportive and encouraging environment for older adults to engage with VR exergames. Encouraging social interactions and providing opportunities for residents to share their experiences with VR gaming may enhance acceptance and overall engagement. Tailoring VR exergames for older adults: The correlation between VR acceptance and the use of SOC strategies indicates that customized experiences may be well-received by LTC residents. Game developers and rehabilitation specialists should consider designing VR exergames that align with the specific preferences and needs of older adults. This could involve providing choices and options for users to optimize their gaming experiences based on their individual abilities and interests. Recognizing gaming experience: Our study highlights that prior gaming experience positively influenced participants’ attitudes towards VR gaming. Rehabilitation professionals should acknowledge and leverage this prior experience when introducing VR exergaming to older adults in LTC. By incorporating elements familiar to older adults or providing guidance for those new to gaming, rehabilitation programs can foster a more seamless and enjoyable transition to VR exergames. Promoting goal pursuit and valued activities: Our study suggests that VR exergaming has the potential to encourage LTC residents’ engagement in valued activities and goal pursuit. Rehabilitation programs can utilize VR exergaming as a means to help residents achieve specific rehabilitation goals and engage in activities that are meaningful to them. This approach can contribute to a sense of purpose and satisfaction in the rehabilitation process. Overall, the integration of VR exergaming in rehabilitation for older adults in LTC facilities has promising implications for improving physical activity levels, enhancing engagement, and addressing the holistic well-being of residents. By considering the social factors influencing VR acceptance and tailoring experiences to individual preferences, rehabilitation professionals can optimize the potential benefits of VR technology in LTC settings.

Exploring the intersections of TAM and TRI models in middle school VR technology acceptance

BackgroundIn recent years, the attitudes of middle school principals toward virtual reality (VR) have received much attention from the educational technology community. As VR continues to gain popularity in education, researchers have begun to explore middle school principals’ perceptions of VR using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use) and Technology Readiness Index (TRI) (optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, and insecurity) models to explore middle school principals’ perceptions of VR. This helps to reveal the influencing factors of middle school principals’ acceptance of VR, which in turn provides theoretical support and guidance for promoting the application of VR in education.MethodsTo explore the factors influencing the acceptance of VR by middle school principals. We searched several databases such as Google, Scopus, and Elsevier. We focused on peer-reviewed English-language publications on VR, TAM, TRI, and middle school education from 2013 to 2023.ResultsThrough the literature review, we found that middle school principals’ intention to use VR was significantly influenced by the TAM (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use) and TRI (optimism, innovation, discomfort, and insecurity) models. In addition, there was some degree of intersection between the dimensions of the TRI and TAM models.ConclusionVR has been widely recognized by middle school principals as an educational tool. By providing an immersive and interactive experience, VR can be effective in improving the efficiency of school operations to a great extent.

Exploring the Potential of Immersive Virtual Reality in Italian Schools: A Practical Workshop with High School Teachers

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in affordable and accessible extended reality devices. Big tech companies like Apple and Meta have announced advanced devices expected to become more prevalent in everyday life. As younger generations embrace immersive digital realities for socialization, entertainment, and information retrieval, there is a need to explore immersive digital technologies that support experiential learning and reevaluate educational approaches. In Italy, the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a growing interest in immersive virtual reality (VR) and the metaverse for distance education. However, the integration of VR in Italian schools could be faster, primarily due to cost and teacher knowledge challenges. Our study aims to involve high school teachers in a practical workshop to assess their knowledge, skills, and intention to use VR in their teaching after brief training. The focus is on evaluating the acceptability of VR for educational purposes among Italian high school teachers. The workshop involved up to 16 teachers at once and was repeated eight times to reach 120 teachers. Participants received VR training and explored three educational VR applications. The results show that teachers are interested in learning and integrating VR into their lessons. They believe it can enhance teaching practices by actively engaging students and enabling experiential learning. This work provides an overview of the current state of VR in education, describes the workshop with high school teachers, and presents the obtained results.

Usability and acceptability of virtual reality for chronic pain management among diverse patients in a safety-net setting: a qualitative analysis.

The aim of this study was to understand the usability and acceptability of virtual reality (VR) among a racially and ethnically diverse group of patients who experience chronic pain. Using the Technology Acceptance Model theory, we conducted semistructured interviews and direct observation of VR use with English-speaking patients who experience chronic pain treated in a public healthcare system (n = 15), using a commercially available VR technology platform. Interviews included questions about current pain management strategies, technology use, experiences and opinions with VR, and motivators for future use. Before the study, none of the 15 participants had heard about or used VR for pain management. Common motivators for VR use included a previous history of substance use and having exhausted many other options to manage their pain and curiosity. Most participants had a positive experience with VR and 47% found that the VR modules distracted them from their pain. When attempting the navigation-based usability tasks, most participants (73%-92%) were able to complete them independently. VR is a usable tool for diverse patients with chronic pain. Our findings suggest that the usability of VR is not a barrier and perhaps a focus on improving the accessibility of VR in safety-net settings is needed to reduce disparities in health technology use. The usability and acceptability of VR are rarely studied in diverse patient populations. We found that participants had a positive experience using VR, showed interest in future use, and would recommend VR to family and friends.

Effect of Virtual Reality Distraction on Satisfaction and Tolerability in Patients Undergoing In-Office KTP Laser Procedure

To study the effect of virtual reality (VR) on satisfaction, discomfort, stress, and cooperation in patients undergoing in-office potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser procedure. Prospective study. Thirty-seven patients were enrolled in this prospective study. The State Anxiety Scale of Spielberg's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to measure the level of state anxiety. Satisfaction, discomfort, pain, stress, acceptance of VR, relaxation with VR, and willingness to wear VR were evaluated using a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS). A 5-point Likert-like scale was used to rate the patient cooperation. All procedures were completed successfully with cooperation of patients. Satisfaction score in VR group was 88.3±9.0, and in control group was 81.6±9.7 (P=0.040). There were significant differences in both nasal cavity and laryngopharynx discomfort between two groups (P=0.030 and P=0.016, respectively). The pain score of control group was higher than that of VR group but it was not statistically significant (P=0.140). The stress of control group during procedure was more obvious than that of VR group (30.5±24.0 versus 17.0±9.2, P=0.021). The mean VAS scores of acceptance of VR were all more than 75. The results of regression analysis showed that VR had significant effects on satisfaction with the procedure (P=0.004), discomfort of nasal cavity (P=0.030) and laryngopharynx (P=0.016), and feeling of stress (P=0.021) during the procedure. Distraction of VR can enhance satisfaction in both procedure and stress management for patients undergoing in-office KTP laser procedure. Acceptance of VR in VR group was relatively good.

Study on the acceptance of virtual reality as a complement to the study of human anatomy

IntroductionInformation and communication technologies have demonstrated their utility adapted to Health Sciences, particularly from an educational perspective. Virtual reality (VR) has become a tool that catalyzes the acquisition of clinical skills before contact with the patient, increasing safety, dexterity in procedures, and reducing the possibility of errors or complications. However, these tools could also offer new approaches for teaching basic subjects for undergraduates (Anatomy, Histology, etc.) and the use of tablets, and especially smartphones, could act as a complementary educational incentive. MethodsTwo hundred seventy-four students from different levels of the degree in Medicine, were invited to use a VR app on their phones with stereoscopic goggles. The users immerse themselves in the bioscopic anatomy, navigating through different anatomical structures. ResultsThe questionnaire scores were, in general, above 4, reaffirming a positive opinion, except regarding the use of the tool for student exams. ConclusionUniversities could increase formative delivery at a reduced cost, while ensuring training quality. The proposed concept of VR also helps to provide a useful learning environment in the COVID-19 scenario. Our results show that the introduction of immersive technology associated with VR and smartphones for medical students can be a welcome complementary or alternative educational tool.

The effects of TPACK and facility condition on preservice teachers’ acceptance of virtual reality in science education course

Virtual reality (VR) is developing in line with the establishment of the learning metaverse, although the relationship between its acceptance and technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) is very unclear. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effects of facility condition (FC), technological acceptance model (TAM), and TPACK on pre-service teachers’ use of VR in Indonesian science education courses. This condition emphasizes the description of these teachers’ readiness in designing VR for learning and teaching integration. The survey was conducted using 406 preservice teachers from 12 Indonesian universities, with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and partial least square-structural equation model (PLS-SEM) subsequently utilized. The results showed that PU (perceived usefulness), PEOU (perceived ease of use), behavior Intention (BI), TPACK, and FC were significantly and positively related. However, two hypotheses emphasizing the relationship between FC and TPACK to PEOU were rejected. These results are expected to facilitate preservice teachers in easily adopting VR learning in courses.

The first steps in facing your fears: The acceptability of virtual reality and in vivo exposure treatment for specific fears.

Phobic individuals are often reluctant to engage in exposure in vivo (IVE). We examined whether providing exposure in virtual reality (VRE) can increase the acceptability. In Study 1, we provided 186 fearful participants with (hypothetical) VRE and IVE treatment offers and examined their willingness to engage in treatment, estimated success, negative beliefs, acceptance/refusal and their preference. Almost 70 % preferred VRE over IVE and acceptance rates were higher for the VRE offer (58 %) than for IVE (35 %). Although participants held fewer negative beliefs about VRE, they did rate IVE as slightly more successful. In Study 2, we examined whether VRE can serve as a stepping stone to IVE in a sample of 102 spider fearful individuals. Willingness to engage, estimated success and negative beliefs about IVE were assessed before and after VRE. After VRE, participants rated IVE as more successful, but were not more willing to engage in IVE, nor were they more inclined to accept an IVE offer. No decreases in negative beliefs were observed. In conclusion, VRE is deemed more acceptable than IVE and could lower refusal rates, hereby resulting in more phobic individuals receiving treatment. Future research should shed light on underlying motivations and associations.

The Perceived Impacts of COVID-19 on Users’ Acceptance of Virtual Reality Hardware: A Digital Divide Perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has directly or indirectly impacted everyone around the globe. However, the pandemic and its long-term consequences have not been distributed evenly within societies. These disparities have in many cases intensified existing social and economic inequalities such as the uptake of novel digital technologies. This study investigates the influence of the pandemic on the acceptance of virtual reality (VR) hardware within the framework of the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the digital divide/inequality scholarship. A survey was designed to examine the perceived impact of COVID-19 on the potential adoption of VR hardware. Specifically, this study included variables related to perceived ease of using VR hardware (ease of use), perceived usefulness of VR hardware (usefulness), intention to use VR hardware (use intention), and intention to purchase VR hardware (purchase intention). The predictors included two digital divide variables (material access and VR experience) and two other variables (COVID-19 and demographic variables). A total of 298 participants were recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk. The results suggest that the perceived impacts of COVID-19 positively predicted participants’ perceived usefulness of VR hardware as well as their intention to use and purchase VR hardware.

Virtual reality tourism and technology acceptance: a disability perspective

ABSTRACT Virtual Reality (VR) is radically changing the tourism industry, and virtual tourism is gaining ground as an alternative form of tourism. People with disabilities could potentially have the biggest utilisation of virtual tourism. However, the success of virtual tourism depends on the acceptance of VR technology. This study investigates the acceptance of VR in tourists with disabilities. Drawing on the theory of planned behaviour, the technology acceptance model and the leisure constraints theory, a conceptual model is proposed mapping the elements for acceptance of VR for tourism-related activities in people with disabilities. Building on this conceptualisation, we propose several propositions to guide further research in this evolving area of enquiry.

Randomized Control Pilot of Virtual Reality, Empathy, Knowledge, Emotions, and Self-Efficacy among Undergraduate Health Science Students

Immersive, embodied virtual reality (VR) combines a head-mounted display with head and motion tracking systems, noise-cancelling headphones for sound, and a three-dimensional interaction scenario. VR can enable social work students to become fully immersed in a simulated realistic world to experience client scenarios. Scant research has been conducted on VR and undergraduate students; this study aimed to answer the research questions: 1) What is the feasibility and acceptability of virtual reality in a large, undergraduate class? and 2) Is virtual learning more effective than an active learning assignment on undergraduate students’ knowledge, empathy, emotions, and self-efficacy? A pilot randomized control pilot study was conducted with undergraduate students (N = 18) in an introductory course. Students were randomized to receive VR (intervention group) or an active learning assignment (control group) to learn about people with Alzheimer’s Disease, vision impairment, or end-of-life. VR was feasible and acceptable among students who commonly reported it as “cool”. The results found that students in the VR group reported more empathy for health conditions and poorer self-efficacy to support clients than the control groups. The reality that immersive VR enables has profound potential for preparing future health professionals to support clients with health conditions.

S929 Assessment of Virtual Reality on Pain and Anxiety at an Infusion Clinic Setting in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Pilot Acceptability Study

Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing and remitting inflammatory condition of the bowel lumen. While abdominal pain is most severe when acute inflammation is present, many patients with IBD in endoscopic remission continue to have abdominal pain. Psychological conditions like anxiety may exacerbate symptoms and cause more frequent flares, leading to increased hospitalizations. Non-pharmacological methods such as virtual reality (VR) have been shown to decrease pain and anxiety in inpatient settings. While there has been support of VR in IBD patients in an clinic setting, no studies have assessed the use of VR in IBD patients at infusion centers, an important aspect of IBD management. If VR can improve both pain and anxiety, then it may lead to improved health outcomes. Methods: This is a prospective, single-center, paired-sample study of adult patients with IBD, where pain and anxiety were measured before and after their regular infusion clinic appointment, with the use of VR on their following infusion appointment. At the end of the study, there was an assessment of the feasibility of VR for future encounters. Anxiety was measured using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and pain was measured using the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ). The VR headset included immersive options such as guided meditations and deep sea diving, and prohibited content that would cause potential distress. Paired sample t-tests were utilized to compare any differences in pain or anxiety during their infusion therapy, with and without use of virtual reality. Results: In this pilot study, we report data of 14 adult patients with IBD (57% Crohn’s Disease, 43% Ulcerative Colitis). Mean age was 42.07 years. Demographic, BAI, SF-MPQ, and VR feasibility data are shown in Table (Table). Conclusion: While preliminary analyses show VR had no significant change in BAI (t = -0.244, p-value = 0.405) and SF-MPQ (t = -0.336, p-value = 0.371), participants reported positive experiences with VR. Patients rated their experience an average of 7.79 on a scale of 1 to 9. 71% of patients reported they would like to use VR during future appointments. These finding support the acceptability of VR in an infusion clinic setting, and provide a framework for further assessment of pain and anxiety in future larger randomized control trials. Table 1. - VR IBD Group Data Age Mean 42.07 years Sex • Male • Female 8 (57%)6 (43%) IBD Type • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis 8 (57%)6 (43%) Infusion Medication • Infliximab • Vedolizumab 7 (50%)7 (50%) Percent of Time with VR During Infusion • Total • Infliximab • Vedolizumab Mean: 74%Mean: 50%Mean: 98% Chronic Opioid Use 2 (14%) Pharmacologic Therapy for Anxiety 4 (29%) Nonprescription Therapy for Anxiety/Pain 5 (36%) Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) t = -0.244, p-value = 0.405 Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) t = -0.336, p-value = 0.371 Would Like to Use VR During Future Appointments 10 (71%) Rate Your Experience1 (Dislike) to 5 (Indifferent) to 9 (Enjoyed) Mean: 7.79 Infusion Experience Felt Faster with VR 12 (86%) Forgot was in Infusion Clinic with VR 3 (21%)

Simulation-Based VR Training for the Nuclear Sector—A Pilot Study

Simulation-based training has seen an increased use of extended reality, that is, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) displays. The health professions have been using VR for simulation-based training more extensively than others. This method can offer the possibility of immediate feedback, which promotes more accurate training to self-correct mistakes in environments that are otherwise risky or provide unsafe conditions. The nuclear industry has attempted to seize the same digital and educational transformation to train their personnel to handle dangerous scenarios. We ran a pilot study with the aim of evaluating the VR training scenario developed for the specific target group and the acceptance of the VR technology itself for this kind of training. We used the Kirkpatrick framework to evaluate the training and the VR-HAM acceptance model to evaluate the acceptance of VR. A VR scenario was developed to test specific technical skills of nuclear power plant personnel. The 13 participants showed results within the basic level of the Kirkpatrick framework and held both positive reactions and concerns, that is, they enjoyed the training with VR and expressed concerns regarding the stability of the VR technology. The participants also showed positive attitudes towards the perceived ease of use and usefulness of the VR-HAM and its various constructs. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic limited our testing, we could show valuable data and positive attitudes and perceived ease by the participants. Simulation-based VR training could be an important complement to traditional training methods, especially where safety is a priority, but we still need to provide solid evidence.