A feasibility study of an AI-based virtual human training design in suicide gatekeeper education.
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| Title: | A feasibility study of an AI-based virtual human training design in suicide gatekeeper education. |
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| Authors: | Lee, Pei-I1,2 (AUTHOR), Wu, Chia-Yi1,3 (AUTHOR) jennycyw@ntu.edu.tw |
| Source: | Medical Teacher. Mar2026, Vol. 48 Issue 3, p467-475. 9p. |
| Subject Terms: | *Communicative competence, *Qualitative research, *Artificial intelligence, *Undergraduates, *Educational technology, *Experience, *Students, *Communication, *Research methodology, *Psychology of college students, Cross-sectional method, Mobile apps, Research funding, Cronbach's alpha, Self-efficacy, Evaluation of human services programs, Pilot projects, Statistical sampling, Interviewing, Quantitative research, Suicide prevention, Thematic analysis, Data analysis software, Augmented reality |
| Geographic Terms: | Taiwan |
| Abstract: | Background: Suicide gatekeeper training is a preventive approach that equips nonprofessionals with the knowledge and skills to recognize and minimize suicide risks. AI-based virtual human technology offers an innovative way to deliver the training via immersive and interactive learning experiences. Objective: The study evaluated the acceptability and practicality of using Virti® virtual human simulation technique to design a Question-Persuade-Referral communication training and explored university students' learning experiences and feedback of the design. Design: Both qualitative and quantitative findings reflected Virti® learning outcomes. User satisfaction and confidence of Virti and suicide gatekeeper knowledge were measured along with semistructured inquiries collecting the learning experiences. Virti® was implemented in a 3-hour gatekeeper training session, including classroom teaching (1.5h) and Virti® practice (1.5h) via mobile or tablet. Results: Fifty-three undergraduates participated in the study (average age 19.2). The post-training score of the item, "I become better understood that gatekeeper care is essential." was rated the highest (Mean=8.23, SD=1.68), while "confidence in acting as a suicide gatekeeper" rated the lowest (Mean=5.82, SD=2.41). Three themes emerged through student feedback: Enhancing communication skills and confidence; perceived value and educational potential of Virti®; and technical limitations and improvement of Virti®. Conclusion: The study validated that AI-based Virti® scenarios were feasible for suicide gatekeeper training and communication skills promotion. Addressing technical issues may further strengthen user confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Education Research Complete |
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| Abstract: | Background: Suicide gatekeeper training is a preventive approach that equips nonprofessionals with the knowledge and skills to recognize and minimize suicide risks. AI-based virtual human technology offers an innovative way to deliver the training via immersive and interactive learning experiences. Objective: The study evaluated the acceptability and practicality of using Virti® virtual human simulation technique to design a Question-Persuade-Referral communication training and explored university students' learning experiences and feedback of the design. Design: Both qualitative and quantitative findings reflected Virti® learning outcomes. User satisfaction and confidence of Virti and suicide gatekeeper knowledge were measured along with semistructured inquiries collecting the learning experiences. Virti® was implemented in a 3-hour gatekeeper training session, including classroom teaching (1.5h) and Virti® practice (1.5h) via mobile or tablet. Results: Fifty-three undergraduates participated in the study (average age 19.2). The post-training score of the item, "I become better understood that gatekeeper care is essential." was rated the highest (Mean=8.23, SD=1.68), while "confidence in acting as a suicide gatekeeper" rated the lowest (Mean=5.82, SD=2.41). Three themes emerged through student feedback: Enhancing communication skills and confidence; perceived value and educational potential of Virti®; and technical limitations and improvement of Virti®. Conclusion: The study validated that AI-based Virti® scenarios were feasible for suicide gatekeeper training and communication skills promotion. Addressing technical issues may further strengthen user confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 0142159X |
| DOI: | 10.1080/0142159X.2025.2561204 |
