Comparing Virtual Reality Simulation to High Fidelity Simulation as an Educational Modality for Electroconvulsive Therapy Training: A Non-Inferiority Study

The goal of this prospective, open-label non-inferiority randomized controlled trial is to investigate if Virtual Reality (VR) based simulation are an effective training tool for novice medical trainees. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Is the VR-based electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) training program non-inferior to traditional, mannequin-based ECT training programs in fostering ECT skill acquisition? * What are the changes in confidence in administering ECT, as well as number of training repetitions completed in the VR and mannequin training groups? * What is the ease of use of the VR-based ECT training program? Researchers will compare the VR-based ECT training program to a mannequin-based ECT training program to see if the VR-based ECT training program is comparable to traditional methods at training for ECT. Participants will: * Complete an ECT skills assessment at the beginning and end of the study session. * Watch a 30-minute didactic ECT lecture video. * Be randomized to either the VR ECT simulation group or the mannequin ECT simulation group and be given 30 minutes to practice ECT administration with their assigned education tool.

NCT Number	NCT07350278
Lead Sponsor	Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Conditions	Education, Medical, Undergraduate, Electroconvulsive Therapy, Virtual Reality Simulation
Enrollment	78 participants
Start Date	2026-01-18
Primary Completion	2027-12-31 (estimated)
Study Completion	2028-03-01 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-08-10