Adoption evaluation of an AI-enabled immersive virtual reality tool in gerontological nursing using an extended technology acceptance model

The increasing shortage of qualified gerontological nurses poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system. To address this issue, an AI-enabled immersive virtual reality (VR) system was previously developed to enhance gerontological nursing training in senior care facilities. In this study, we focus on systematically evaluating user acceptance of this AI-enabled VR-based training system using an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The evaluation framework incorporates both classical TAM constructs and additional context-specific factors such as personal innovativeness and presence. Data collected from 45 gerontological nurses (41 valid records) were analyzed using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results show that perceived usefulness significantly impacts intention to use, as well as perceived enjoyment of the system; personal innovativeness significantly influences perceived ease of use, enjoyment, and intention to use; and intention to use positively influences intention to purchase if commercialized. These findings offer new insights into the adoption of immersive AI-VR tools in healthcare education and extend existing acceptance modeling approaches in the field of nursing training.