The BodySwaps Project

Following a successful grant application, our team has launched the Bodyswaps Project — an exciting collaboration between Meta and Bodyswaps aimed at enhancing healthcare education through VR simulation-based learning.

As part of the grant, we received two MetaQuest headsets and a full Bodyswaps license, opening up a rich library of interactive learning modules specifically tailored to building key healthcare and employability skills. The Bodyswaps platform offers a safe, immersive space where healthcare students can practice vital communication and interpersonal skills ahead of their work placements. Key modules available include:

• Active Listening in Healthcare

• Career Mindset Development

• Clear Communication

• Communicating in a Person-Centred Way

• Emotional Intelligence and Personal Impact
  

Through realistic VR simulations, students can build confidence, develop empathy, and strengthen their readiness for the professional environment. One of Bodyswaps’ most powerful features is its unique perspective-shifting mechanic: after students interact with a virtual patient, the experience "swaps" their perspective, allowing them to listen back to themselves as if they were the patient. This reflective approach will provide immediate insight into communication styles, tone, and empathy, helping learners rapidly develop greater self-awareness and improvement strategies. This project is in the early stages as we are yet to receive the headsets, but after receiving headsets we will have three months during which:

• Students will engage with various Bodyswaps modules.

• Feedback will be gathered on usability, engagement, and educational impact.

• Findings will be reported back to the Bodyswaps team to help shape the future of VR healthcare training.