Augmented Reality Animations for Smoking Cessation Counseling Training

The intervention group received a tutorial that incorporated Augmented Reality (AR) animations alongside conventional teaching materials. In addition to watching four real-life smoker scenario videos and reading corresponding case texts, students used their smartphones to interact with AR animations that visualized the physiological effects of smoking (e.g., lung cancer, vascular disease, aging). These animations were used during group discussions and role-play sessions, helping students to assess smokers' knowledge, illustrate health risks, and tailor counseling plans using the 5As model. The AR experience was designed to enhance learning engagement, emotional connection, and self-efficacy in delivering smoking cessation counseling.

The control group, received a conventional tutorial without the use of AR technology. They watched the same four smoker scenario videos and read the same case texts, then engaged in small group discussions and role-play activities to develop quit plans using the 5As counseling model. However, unlike the intervention group, their learning process relied solely on textual and video materials, without the immersive or interactive elements provided by AR. This approach represents standard smoking cessation training methods commonly used in nursing education.