Study of Mixed Reality Training for Midwifery Students to Improve Cervical Effacement and Dilation Assessment Evaluating Cognitive Load, Sense of Presence, and Professional Perception

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate whether a mixed reality-based training program can effectively teach midwifery students to assess cervical effacement and dilation. It also explores how this training impacts students cognitive load, sense of presence, and their professional perception of midwifery. The study compares students receiving mixed reality training with those undergoing traditional instruction. Participants are randomly assigned to either a mixed reality training group or a standard education group. The mixed reality group interacts with 3D virtual cervical models and practices assessments in a safe, repeatable environment, followed by virtual patient scenarios. Afterwards, they perform vaginal examinations on five pregnant women under supervision. The control group receives traditional theoretical instruction before performing similar clinical assessments. Both groups complete scales measuring cognitive load, presence, and professional perception. Throughout the study, participants accuracy in measuring cervical dilation and effacement is evaluated over four months. Cognitive load and midwifery professional perception are assessed at four months, while sense of presence is measured immediately after the mixed reality training. All clinical assessments happen during supervised practice on pregnant women in real settings. The study runs from October 2025 to February 2026, allowing thorough evaluation of training effects on practical skills and perceptions.

Mixed Reality Training for Teaching Cervical Effacement and Dilation