Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Video Games and Simulations for Designing Learning Experiences for Nursing Student and Educators

Background: Technological applications, games and simulations are already extensively incorporated into the traditional educational process. Lately, the interest in investigating games and simulation use in nursing education has been amplified. The alteration, from lecture-centered to student-centered environments and the growing use of games as innovative learning technologies, demands a renovation in nursing education. In regard to this, games and simulations are projected to play an important part in the nursing learning process. Virtual simulation and gaming offer a sustainable, lucrative teaching alternative for nursing students and nursing educators.

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to discuss present Advantages and Disadvantages of utilizing games and simulation for designing learning experiences for nursing.

Methods: An electronic database search was conducted of five electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar (January, 2007 – December, 2019) limited to English. Studies that discuss application of games and/or simulation for designing learning experiences for nursing students and educators.

Results: The search strategy identified 168 papers of which 34 were retrieved for full review. Nineteen articles were removed based on the exclusion/inclusion criteria, leaving 18 articles for final analysis. During this literature review this author noted three key advantages and three key disadvantages.

Keywords: Games; Simulations; Learning experiences; Nursing; Education