VR offers new opportunities for Social Work students
Cutting-edge technology allows students to experience realistic scenarios without risk
Social workers of the future are now using cutting-edge virtual reality technology to replicate scenarios and complement their education at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
The new materials have been created at ARU by Vanessa Ferguson, Leighanne Wilson, Dr Marques Hardin and Paul Driver, and a partnership between ARU and Bloomsbury Publishers means that Social Work students at subscribing institutions are able to access the simulations via the Bloomsbury Social Work Toolkit.
An example scenario replicated by the technology is a simulated home visit, which gives students the opportunity to look around freely, spot any potential issues or signs of neglect, and click on hotspots to find out more information.
Beginning with a referral or initial case notes, learners are prompted to record their thoughts, concerns, and reflections. From there, they can complete a series of preparatory activities to ensure they are ready for their simulated home visit. These activities test learners’ knowledge of relevant legislation and help prepare them for real-world scenarios they may encounter in their social work practice.
All ARU students now have access to the technology through their online learning portal. The VR learning will complement the existing teaching and real-life placements that students undergo as part of their three-year undergraduate degree.
This year is the first time ARU’s Social Work course has included virtual reality technology. A recent Office for Students (OfS) grant means ARU is equipping its campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford and Peterborough with state-of-the-art VR facilities to be used by a range of courses, including Nursing and Midwifery, as well as Social Work.
Vanessa Ferguson, Associate Professor and Lecturer in Social Work at ARU, said:
“A crucial part of a social worker’s role is the home visit, which has traditionally been challenging to replicate in a teaching environment and so students have relied on experience gained in placement."
“The VR simulation offers them the chance to replicate these home visits and provides a safe environment to discuss their findings with their peers and tutors."
“We are delighted to be partnering with Bloomsbury to help improve the experience for our Social Work students, as well as students across the country, and we look forward to developing new scenarios to enhance their learning further.”
Helen Caunce, Senior Publisher at Bloomsbury Publishers, said:
“We are excited to announce the launch of immersive 360° social work simulations. Helping to prepare students for their placements can be a challenge and these valuable resources will provide much-needed support as students enter a new stage in their journey.”