Elmhurst University goes ‘Meta’

Elmhurst University’s Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice (MENP) was the recipient of the Immersive Soft Skills Education Grant from Bodyswaps and Meta Immersive Learning. 

The grant allows nursing students and faculty to utilize Bodyswaps library resources to improve their soft skills and be able to receive feedback. Along with the software, students will use VR headsets for simulations to improve their skills in a safe space. 

Bodyswaps, a software company in the United Kingdom, partnered with Meta to improve learning performance and believe the best way to do that is making technology widely accessible. 

The grant was secured by Laury Westbury, assistant professor of nursing, in January after applying for it in November. With over 200 applicants, about 100 schools received the grant. EU is one of two schools in Illinois to have received the grant. 

Westbury was excited to be able to provide students with a new learning experience and help them improve on valuable skills.

“I want the students to learn and become more self aware,” said Westbury. “The simulations allow students to do so in a safe space and see how they can improve.” 

In the simulations, students choose an avatar and work with others to practice their soft skills, such as leadership and communication. These simulations allow students to practice in an environment where they are comfortable and don’t feel judged by others. 

Once the pilot program is completed, successful applicants will be able to keep the headsets and continue to use them in classrooms. 

Students in the MENP will be able to start using the headsets once they arrive in the upcoming weeks.  

“I’m so excited for students to get the headsets,” said Westbury. “I want them to learn as much as they can and take what they learn and use it in their careers.”