Feasibility and acceptability of a virtual learning module for navigating angry conversations in clinical encounters

• DOI: 10.1186/s12909-025-06726-6
• Publication Date: 2025-02-01T11:07:39Z
• Authors: Valerie Shilling; Rachel Starkings; Lesley Fallowfield
• Keywords: Headset; Computer-assisted web interviewing

The use of technology in medical education has been increasing with more students exposed to some form online learning or tutorials, under the umbrella virtual (VL). Many programmes, particularly those involving reality, have centred on practical skills, such as surgical techniques anatomical knowledge, rather than communication. study presented here examined feasibility and acceptability a VL module developed aid communication when handling angry patients their relatives. Participants were 4th 5th year at Brighton Sussex Medical School. Students randomly allocated receive training about having conversations clinical setting via reality headset desktop application. Prior intervention, everyone completed SE12 self-efficacy questionnaire, 5-item confidence measure, free-response specific survey. Following module, they another survey, fixed free responses, along UTAUT2 questionnaire acceptance technology. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively, conceptual content analysis applied responses. received £25 voucher for time. Twenty took part project. Scores did not differ significantly between intervention arms. Confidence improved across all five categories - recognising responses that diffuse exacerbate anger, identifying anger signals, remaining calm hostile situations, moving forward empathy, applying different situations. Responses indicated VL, including psychological safety it provides. Nineteen text analysis. spoke frequently challenges navigating anger. There initial apprehension would feel realistic, though this largely reversed post-intervention. expressed preference combination whichever modality, face-to-face teaching, benefits both. found be acceptable, providing them tangible skills. should consideration how incorporate mix practice added realism. Clinical trial number applicable.