Virtual reality in undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education: a scoping review protocol integrating data mining for topic discovery

Virtual Reality (VR) encompasses a range of computer-based technologies that simulate complex scenarios, offering immersive, experiential learning in a controlled virtual environment. In nursing education, VR has the potential to enhance both technical and non-technical competencies. However, the existing literature on VR in nursing education is fragmented, making it challenging to fully grasp its scope, applications, and emerging trends. This scoping review protocol outlines a systematic approach to mapping the existing literature on the use of VR in undergraduate and postgraduate nursing education. Following Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR 2020 framework, the review will include studies published in English, Spanish, or Italian, as well as those with an accessible HTML version to enable accurate automated translation and eligibility assessment. A comprehensive search will be conducted across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and EMBASE, with no time restrictions. Two independent reviewers will assess study eligibility and extract data using a standardized form. Additionally, data mining techniques, including Latent Dirichlet Allocation enhanced by Bayesian optimization, will be employed to identify trends and emerging topics in the field, providing valuable insights for educators, researchers, and policymakers. • This scoping review protocol outlines the methodology for systematically mapping the existing literature on VR in nursing education, providing a comprehensive overview of its applications at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. • Advanced data mining techniques will be applied to uncover emerging trends and key topics, enhancing the understanding of VR's evolving role in nursing education. • Findings will offer methodological and practical insights, supporting educators, researchers, and policymakers in optimizing and expanding VR-based learning strategies in nursing.