Virtual reality in occupational therapy: innovation for the strengthening of communication and social interaction in school contexts

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to design a virtual reality-based simulation environment, from an occupational therapy perspective, aimed at strengthening communication and interaction skills among fourth- and fifth-grade students at a public school in Bucaramanga. It was conducted using a descriptive quantitative approach, employing the Assessment of Communication and Interaction Skills (ACIS) as a tool to analyze performance in the domains of body language, information exchange, and interpersonal relationships. The sample consisted of 102 students, selected through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The findings revealed a predominance of the competent level, specifically in the physical domain; however, limitations were identified in conversational skills, including initiating, sustaining, and ending interactions, as well as in social reciprocity and emotional regulation, primarily in the domains of information exchange and interpersonal relationships. Based on these results, a virtual reality simulation was designed to recreate immersive, safe, and controlled scenarios, facilitating progressive training of social and communication skills. The proposal incorporated therapeutic objectives, adjustable levels of complexity, and immediate feedback mechanisms, which facilitated guided practice and performance monitoring. It was concluded that virtual reality is a relevant and innovative tool in occupational therapy, as it enhances communication skills, strengthens school participation, and contributes to social- emotional development. Furthermore, its feasibility for implementation in educational settings and its potential to promote inclusive processes were highlighted.