Buckinghamshire New University to benefit from virtual reality teaching tools

Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) has been awarded the Bodyswaps & Meta XR Education Grant, enabling students to explore virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools as part of their professional training.

The grant supported the integration of immersive technology into the university’s MSc Nursing and Master of Public Health (MPH) programmes, offering students access to simulation-based learning through the Bodyswaps VR platform.

Bodyswaps uses scenario-based environments to help learners practise communication and professional skills.

A key feature of the platform is its ‘body-swapping’ function, which allows students to view their own performance from another person’s perspective — a tool designed to enhance empathy, reflection, and self-awareness.

Students participated in three VR modules:

• SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation): Focused on improving clarity and confidence in clinical communication.

• Values to Guide Actions: Engaged students in ethically complex scenarios, requiring them to apply core NHS and public health values.

• A Patient-Centred Approach: Offered practice in empathy, active listening, and body language with virtual patients.

The pilot was implemented at BNU’s High Wycombe campus, supported by the university’s Digital Campus infrastructure.

This included the provision of VR headsets, digital learning guidance, and technical support to ensure smooth integration into the curriculum.

According to the university, student feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive,” with many participants reporting increased confidence in communication and a deeper understanding of professional values.

BNU said the project reflects its commitment to embedding technology-enhanced learning across its academic programmes and to preparing graduates for the evolving demands of modern healthcare and public service roles.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.