In this episode I speak to two of our MSc Physiotherapy students, Carly Walker and Alice Hockham, alongside Dean Walker, to discuss their experiences with Bodyswaps — a VR platform for developing non-technical healthcare skills.

Highlights

• Bodyswaps provides immersive experiences focusing on communication, empathy, and professional presentation in both VR and desktop formats
• Students co-created scenarios, including a cardiac rehabilitation simulation based on personal experience
• The platform provided automated, personalised feedback on communication elements like empathy and body language
• Students particularly valued seeing themselves from an external perspective during interactions, offering unique reflective opportunities
• Desktop mode enabled engagement with larger groups (57 students in one session) through collaborative learning

Key takeaways

• VR helps shift focus from clinical knowledge to person-centred, empathetic care
• Student involvement in content creation increases engagement and authenticity
• The technology supports asynchronous, self-directed learning opportunities

Advice for implementation

• Ensure robust technical support for onboarding and troubleshooting
• Consider desktop mode as a cost-effective alternative to VR headsets
• Focus on integration with existing curriculum rather than complete redesign
• Trust students to take ownership of their learning with the technology
• Use VR to complement traditional teaching rather than replace it