Carlson partners with Nursing's VR program to tackle sustainability

Carlson School of Management students were transported to the Greek island of Tilos for an immersive experience addressing challenges in the zero-waste supply chain, thanks in part to the virtual reality (VR) headsets on loan from the School of Nursing.

The school currently sustains the largest nursing VR program in the country with 140 headsets. Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Nursing students utilizes VR simulations to prepare them for the realities of practicing as an acute care nurse. 

“Immersive learning has the power to help students step inside complex situations, make decisions, and see challenges from a new perspective,” says Cynthia Bradley, PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE, ANEF, director of simulation at the School of Nursing. “This collaboration reflects what is possible when we think beyond disciplinary boundaries, and we are excited to share the School of Nursing’s VR resources and expertise with colleagues across the University.”

It was the first VR case study used in a Carlson classroom, according to Associate Professor Necati Ertekin, who wanted students to experience sustainability challenges in immersive, experiential learning environments.