The Virtual Immersion Center for Simulation Research: Interactive Simulation Technology for Communication Disorders

The Communication Sciences Department at Case Western Reserve University is building an immersive virtual reality (IVR) cave simulation research laboratory to increase student clinical competency skills and carry over of therapeutic skills for children and adults with communication disorders. The use of this IVR simulation lab known as the Virtual Immersion Center for Simulation Research (VICSR) has the potential to provide computerized training in a safe, controlled, learner-centered environment wherein students and clients can repeatedly practice a range of skills in natural contexts. Previous research has shown that VR learning environments demand a high level matrix of knowledge, skill and judgment; qualities that contribute to successful, competent clinicians and rehabilitated clients [1]. The focus of VICSR is to design and implement a clinical VR simulation training program to target a variety of communication disorders to determine its effectiveness in increasing student clinical competency skills and generalization of therapeutic skills for clients with speech and language disorders.