Improve MR training by adjusting scenario complexity for stress elicitation and implementing communication capabilities with virtual patients¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · 2 claims (1 for, 1 mixed) · 1 study (1 qualitative), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The article identifies two concrete improvements for future MR-MCI training systems. First, the ability to adjust scenario complexity is needed so that training can effectively elicit stress, which both groups considered essential in simulation training. Second, communication capabilities with virtual patients should be implemented, since the current system's pre-recorded voice lines did not reach real-life levels of social presence and trainees did not receive verbal responses during interactions. The article states: "Potential improvements include the ability to adjust scenario complexity for stress elicitation and the implementation of communication capabilities with virtual patients."

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• The MR system must support adjustable scenario complexity and enable bidirectional communication between trainees and virtual patients.

Constraints¶

• The current MR system's pre-recorded voice lines did not reach real-life levels of social presence, and trainees did not receive verbal responses during interactions.

Target Learners¶

• Medical first responders (MFRs)

Target Learning Goals¶

• Stress inoculation and realistic patient interaction during MCI triage training

Claims¶

• Qualitative data indicate a need to improve interaction opportunities with virtual patients in MR training [+W]
• MR and RLE groups report similar stress, exhaustion, and self-efficacy levels after mass casualty incident training [~W]

Related Strategies¶

• Integrate MR training into existing first-responder curricula as a phased supplement, starting with scenarios that are hard to implement in routine training
• Simulation Based Medical Training
• Design training scenarios that exploit AR while accounting for current system limitations

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Baetzner, A. S., Gerwann, S., Uhl, J. C., Schuster, B., Sjöberg, D., Wenighofer, R., Frenkel, M. O., & Wrzus, C. (2025). Mixed reality and real-life exercises for mass casualty incidents: a comparison of psychological responses and learning. Education Tech Research Dev, 73, 2861–2875. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-025-10517-7