Analysis of the virtual simulation practice and high fidelity simulation practice training experience of nursing students: A mixed-methods study

Purpose: This study used an exploratory sequential approach (mixed methods) design to explore essential meaning through comparing and analyzing the experiences of nursing students in virtual simulation practice and high fidelity simulation practice education in parallel. Methods: The study participants were 20 nursing students, and data were collected through focus group meetings from July 17 to August 5, 2020, and via online quantitative data from November 10 to November 15, 2020. The qualitative data were analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological method, and the quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test analysis of variance and Spearman’s ρ correlation. Results: The comparison between the two simulation training experiences was shown in five contextual structures, as follows: (1) reflection of the clinical field, (2) thinking theorem vs. thinking expansion, (3) individual-centered learning vs. team-centered learning, (4) attitudes toward participating in practical training, (5) metacognition of personal competency as a prospective nurse, and (6) revisiting the method of practice training. There was a positive correlation between satisfaction with the practice and the clinical judgment ability of high fidelity simulation, which was statistically significant (r=.47, p=.036). Conclusion: Comparing the experiences between virtual simulation practice training and high fidelity simulation practice training, which has increased in demand due to the Coronavirus Disease-2019 pandemic, is meaningful as it provides practical data for introspection and reflection on in-campus clinical education.