Abstract:

Introduction:
It is widely accepted that emotions are important learning reinforcements. Long-lasting knowledge might be improved when we are having a satisfactory experience while learning a skill or a fact. Also, different studies have shown that introducing the student to an immersive environment is almost as productive as facing a real situation, from a pedagogical point of view. Moreover, as part of the design thinking approach we used to create 360º cases, prototype case testing is essential to better understand the user's needs.  

Aim:
he aim of this paper was to study the impact of 360º videos in learning in health sciences students by analysing brain waves and testing the usability of the tool  

Methods:
A group of undergraduate nursing students were shown a case in 360º video and the same case in regular 2-Dimensional video. The excitement, focus, engagement, stress levels, relaxation and interest of the students were measured through a portable electroencephalograph. Such device allowed us to register the students’ electroencephalograms (EEG), electrical waves generated by the neurons of the brain. Data was later analyzed using Emotiv pro, a software that permitted us to monitor changes in emotions and attention. Moreover, we measured students’ enjoyment, subjective usefulness, subjective ease of use and immersion through a validated usability survey.  

Findings:
The results showed that students are more satisfied with the immersive experience than with the 2D visualization. They have the impression that learning is easier and more stimulating when using this kind of 360º video technology. Moreover, the EEG data showed that students experienced a higher degree of engagement, attention and interest when using the 360º video technology compared to using 2-Dimensional video.  

Conclusions:
A 360º video case was successfully developed and evaluated. This type of 360º immersive technology enhances the students’ learning experience and motivation, which might make them more committed in their learning. This technology has enormous potential and provides new dimensions to the field of nursing education.  

Acknowledgement:
This study was part of an Erasmus Plus funded project.

Keywords:

360º video, brain waves, electroencephalogram, clinical simulation, learning, nursing training, nursing education.