Emotional Learning Developing a Peer Support Training Program using 2D, 3D, & Headset VR

This presentation is a review of lessons learned and key points for using simulation-style serious games to help teach peer support skills and deal with emotional situations. We’ve created a simulation for medical students (who have been particularly challenged in the past 2 years), to help them deal with common challenges, and are testing 2D and 3D versions. The LIFT simulation lets users make various choices and receive feedback during a typical day as a medical student.  Players interact with peers, staff, and patients who may need some support or offer verbal challenges. We prototyped using Adobe XD, and are now working in Unreal to create a more interactive version.  I’ll review early user feedback on the pros/cons of the visuals, storyline, and interactive features, especially with respect to “emotional intelligence” topics.  Attendees using simulations and serious games for training or education will benefit from hearing about our mistakes and our successes.

Reference: Metcalf, M. Emotional Learning Developing a Peer Support Training Program using 2D, 3D, & Headset VR. VR in Education MeetUp; 2022 April 19; Raleigh, NC, United States.

More info on the author: Mary Metcalf