Anglia Ruskin University

10/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/23/2024 07:27

VR offers new opportunities for Social Work students

Published: 23 October 2024 at 13:30

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:


Helen Caunce, Senior Publisher at Bloomsbury Publishers, said: