Modernising Professional Development Through Virtual Innovation

The healthcare sector is constantly moving forward, and therefore, the education and training provided to future professionals should be upgraded as well. The VRCARE project, co-funded by Erasmus+, aims to revolutionise vocational education in elderly and childcare making use of virtual reality (VR) technology. By combining real-life situations with VR experiences, VRCARE equips students, teachers, and caregivers with skills to address ethical dilemmas, interact efficiently with patients, and improve stimulation training for vulnerable populations.

Modernising Healthcare through Vocational Education

Implemented from September 2024 to July 2027, VRCARE is designed to modernise vocational education and healthcare practices in Europe, specifically aiming towards:

1. Digital Transformation: VRCARE is creating 72 real-life scripts and 12 VR scenarios in collaboration with teachers and caregivers.
2. Labour Market Alignment: The VR scenarios can add to the students’ understanding of ethical dilemmas, interaction, and stimulation training, preparing them for the workplace and real-life situations.
3. Innovation in VET: The project works on adding VR technology into healthcare education, making the learning experience more practical and effective for students.

Key Features of VRCARE

The project’s deliverables include a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and an AICARE Library. These tools offer resources by providing:

• Realistic VR scenarios that simulate interactions with elderly residents or children, allowing students training to be conducted in a safe and controlled learning environment.
• Resources for caregivers regarding the use VR as a tool for stimulation and sensory activities.
• Content available in English, Finnish, Swedish, Danish, Spanish, and Greek, which will ensure widespread usability.

Collaborative Effort

The VRCARE project comprises eight organisations from seven countries, each contributing their expertise to the project’s activities:

• Centre for Competence Development Cyprus
• Axxell Utbildning Ab
• p-Consulting
• GRETB – Galway Technical Institute
• Centro San Viator
• Bridgwater and Taunton College
• SOSU Østjylland
• Diefthynsi Defterovathmias Ekpaidefsis Aitoloakarnanias

The kick-off meeting of the project took place this November in Nicosia, Cyprus, hosted by COMCY. The three-day activities brought the partner organisations together and were both productive and engaging. All participants collaborated with the goal to define project objectives and plan future activities, as they also participated in training sessions. The meeting concluded with clear next steps, ensuring alignment among all partners as they officially began working on the VRCARE project objectives.

Bridging Education and Healthcare

VRCARE hopes its impact will extend beyond the classroom setting and timeframe of the planned activities. By involving VET students and caregivers in its pilot testing phase, the project bridges the gap between education and practical application. Participants gain hands-on experience, for an easier transition from school to work environments. For elderly residents and children in care centres, the VR scenarios offer enhanced interaction and sensory stimulation, promoting well-being.

Learn more about the VRCARE project.