Seton Hall University’s College of Nursing was featured at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Transform 2025 Conference. Interim Dean Kristi Stinson, Ph.D., gave a presentation on a study titled “Assessment of a Virtual Reality Mass Disaster Simulation to Increase Generation Z Nursing Student Readiness.” The research was co-led with Leslie Rippon, Ph.D., associate professor in the M.S. in Athletic Training program.
The project focused on developing a virtual reality (VR) simulation that allowed senior nursing students to practice triage decisions and team communication during a simulated mass-casualty event. The collaboration drew on expertise from nursing, interprofessional communication, athletic training, and simulation fields.
Findings from the study indicated that VR-based simulations improved students’ perceived readiness, enhanced their interprofessional communication skills, and increased confidence in disaster response protocols. This approach addresses the learning preferences of Generation Z students who favor technology-driven and immersive educational experiences.
“Presenting at AACN Transform 2025 was an incredible opportunity to highlight the innovative work happening at Seton Hall,” said Stinson. “Sharing our findings with colleagues from across the country reinforced the importance of interprofessional collaboration and the powerful role virtual reality can play in preparing the next generation of nurses.”
The research shows that VR can help fill gaps in traditional emergency preparedness education and support evolving needs for future nurses. The collaborative effort between Stinson and Rippon demonstrates how combining knowledge from different disciplines can strengthen nursing education and better prepare graduates for complex situations.
