Development, validation, and comparative evaluation of an immersive virtual reality for MRI patient preparation training in radiologic technology education

Traditional radiologic technology education primarily relies on lecture-based methods and provides limited hands-on opportunities due to equipment shortages, patient-safety concerns, and limited instructor availability. In this study, we developed an immersive virtual reality (VR) educational module simulating patient preparation for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We compared the immediate learning impact of the VR module with that of conventional materials using a randomized two-arm pre-test/post-test design. Twenty-eight second-year radiologic technology students were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups (n = 14 each). The VR module was developed using a 360-degree video capture of the MRI patient preparation process, edited using standard authoring software, and delivered in a virtual classroom platform via an Oculus Rift S headset. After a baseline 20-item pre-test, Group A used traditional materials and Group B experienced the VR module, followed by an immediate post-test. For educational fairness and comparative feedback, participants then crossed over to the alternate modality. Expert review yielded strong content validity (S-CVI = 0.9505) and acceptance (TAM = 4.72/5). Both groups improved from pre-test to post-test. At post-test, the VR group scored higher than the traditional group (independent t : p = 0 . 035 ; Mann–Whitney U : p = 0 . 045 ). Change scores did not differ significantly between groups. Students reported high satisfaction with VR (4.78/5). The VR development workflow enabled rapid, potentially low-cost deployment and is transferable to other hands-on procedures in radiologic technology curricula. • Immersive 20-min MRI preparation VR module using 360°video capture and HMD delivery. • Randomized pre/post testing showed higher post-test scores in the VR cohort. • 360°video VR workflows enable scalable, low-cost procedural radiologic technology training.