Exploring the Role of Cine-Virtual Reality in Empathy and Awareness of Social Determinants of Health Among Occupational Therapy Students

Authors

• Leah M. Stade, University of Nebraska Medical CenterFollow
• Madison McKeever, University of Nebraska Medical CenterFollow
• Emma Gardner, University of Northern IowaFollow
• Jana L. Wardian PhD, University of Nebraska Medical CenterFollow

ORCID (Optional)

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8537-5503

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3025-686X

Publication Date

4-9-2026

Abstract

Understanding social determinants of health (SDOH) is crucial for Occupational Therapy students to develop empathy and deliver optimal healthcare. This study explores using web-based 360° cinematic virtual reality (cine-VR) simulations in Level I fieldwork to address SDOH education and occupational engagement before community-based exposure.

This mixed methods study involved surveys and thematic analysis of written reflections from fifty students in a distance-based program at a Midwest university. Students viewed 12 web-based immersive cine-VR modules about a client experiencing multiple SDOH impacts. Surveys were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and 6-weeks post-intervention, measuring empathy using the Jefferson Empathy Scale and attitudes toward diabetes using the Diabetes Attitude Scale–Version 3. Student reflection papers were analyzed for common themes using MAXQDA.

Results from thirty-six students across all time points showed increased empathy and significant changes in attitudes toward diabetes. Reflections highlighted factors impacting occupational performance, aspirations to improve care, and emotional responses.

Web-based cine-VR modules effectively teach SDOH and their impact on occupational performance, enhancing health equity education in Occupational Therapy programs.

DOI

doi: 10.32873/unmc.dc.ihsej.0074

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Stade, Leah M.; McKeever, Madison; Gardner, Emma; and Wardian, Jana L. PhD (2026) "Exploring the Role of Cine-Virtual Reality in Empathy and Awareness of Social Determinants of Health Among Occupational Therapy Students," Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal: Vol. 2 : Iss. 2 , Article 4.
Available at: https://doi.org/doi: 10.32873/unmc.dc.ihsej.0074