"We combine the world of virtual reality and healthcare"
With the launch of the pilot phase, the EU-funded project VReduMED at OTH Regensburg has entered a new, hands-on stage. In early April, the first VR headsets and accompanying equipment were officially handed over to selected healthcare education institutions. This marks the beginning of the testing phase, during which immersive technologies in nursing education will be scientifically evaluated.
At the core of the pilot is the question of how international best-practice VR applications can be meaningfully integrated into existing curricula. Three committed partners are leading the way:
These institutions will gain access over the coming weeks to a curated selection of innovative VR learning scenarios—either developed within the project or identified as best-practice examples from participating countries.
What makes this phase particularly innovative is the testing of the mobile VR lab concept. In addition to lending modern VR headsets, custom-built network solutions tailored for educational settings are also being tested. Each site receives pre-installed applications, a dedicated network, and technical equipment to ensure stable and independent connectivity. The rollout is supported by an experienced team at OTH Regensburg, which also systematically analyzes the technical and didactic feedback from participants.
Anselm Stadler (Research Associate, OTH Regensburg):
“Our goal is to bring immersive technologies directly to where they are needed—into everyday education. The mobile VR lab allows us to create practical structures that directly support instructors and trainees.”
The pilot phase aims to identify both challenges and success factors in the integration of XR technologies in nursing education. Special focus is placed on the needs of educators and the impact of immersive learning scenarios on trainees’ understanding and practical skills.
Prof. Dr. Christa Mohr (Project Lead, OTH Regensburg):
“VReduMED represents a bridge between European research and nursing education practice. The pilot phase demonstrates how innovation in education can emerge collaboratively with its users.”
VReduMED thus stands not only for the transfer of international expertise into the German education system but also for a research-driven innovation process co-created with practice stakeholders.