When we tested the newly developed VR scenarios in VRCare, a number of practical insights quickly became clear. One of the first considerations is the importance of having enough physical space, particularly for scenarios that involve movement. In these cases, working in pairs proved especially valuable, both from a safety perspective and in providing mutual support. We also found that having at least two facilitators present makes a significant difference, as managing several VR headsets, in our case six at a time, can be challenging for one person alone.
Another key takeaway relates to users’ varying levels of technical confidence. Those who are already familiar with digital tools tend to adapt quickly and require only minimal guidance. In contrast, less experienced users often need more hands-on support and may initially struggle to navigate the system independently. That said, we observed that once users, particularly students, become more accustomed to the equipment, the VR scenarios can serve as an engaging and effective learning tool.
Another lesson learned was the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment is essential. We found it important to clearly communicate shared guidelines before starting, such as respecting one another’s experience and avoiding actions that might startle or unsettle others. The virtual environments themselves should feel calm and trustworthy, allowing participants to immerse themselves fully and confidently. One of the strengths of the system is that everyone can share the same scenario and move within it, which creates opportunities for interaction and a deeper sense of presence after having experienced the scenario.
We also noted some practical limitations. The VR headsets can feel somewhat heavy, particularly for children and for older individuals with functional impairments. Despite this, many of the elderly participants described the experience very positively, especially appreciating the sense of “travel” and immersion that the virtual environments offered.
Our main lesson has been that successful implementation requires thoughtful preparation, sufficient staffing, and a strong focus on the needs and comfort of the users. Since VR is still a new tool for both the teachers at Axxell and the caregivers in elderly and childcare settings with whom we collaborate, we are continuously learning and exploring. It is an ongoing journey. A journey that we are genuinely excited to be part of!
“VRCARE: Modernizing Healthcare Pedagogy with Virtual Reality for Interaction, Ethics, Stimulation and Sensory” (Project Code: 2024-1-FI01-KA220-VET-000249151), co-funded by the European Union.
