Reimaging the future of nursing education: NWTC Health Sciences launches its first XR lab

Through a $300,000 grant from Achieving the Dream and Brave Heart Fund to address shortages of nurses and systemic inequities in nursing pathways, NWTC is launching its first Health Sciences Extended Reality (XR) Lab. The state-of-the-art facility will revolutionize the way nursing education is delivered and experienced, offering students a dynamic and immersive learning environment. 
 

“Extended reality provides an innovative platform to enhance students’ clinical skills, critical thinking, and patient care techniques. It’s truly the wave of the future in healthcare education, and it’s happening here,” said NWTC Dean of Health Sciences Scott Anderson.
 

The XR Lab offers eight extended reality workstations that provide thousands of simulations of nursing skills and procedures. Students can engage in lifelike clinical scenarios in AR/VR technology, allowing the students to practice in a realistic and risk-free environment.
 

“As the healthcare industry continues to combat staffing shortages, it is critical that our graduates are ready to hit the ground running with the skills, confidence, and experience needed for their fast-paced careers,” said Anderson. “There is no doubt that extended reality will set a new standard for nursing education with our community and beyond.”