Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started in Clinical Simulation

This module will provide information on creating clinical simulations and foundational basics when a health professional educator is considering the use of simulation pedagogy into a course, program, and/or curriculum. Based on a building analogy, the learner will navigate the steps of getting started using the simulation pedagogy outlining major steps, basic fundamentals, and considerations to “get started.” In addition as an educator adopts this use of this pedagogy, major activities, concepts, a simulation theory, and research findings are discussed so the foundation of your simulation program is grounded in theory and best practices that can lead to policy implications for your simulation center.

INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

During this module, you will learn about the historical perspectives in the development of the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation and the template which is consistent across each standard. We will discuss the importance (the WHY) of the standards in simulation-based education as guideposts in developing your simulation program. As we progress through each video, you will learn about each standard (The WHAT) with in-depth descriptions of criteria to meet the standard (the HOW). You will be able to identify where your simulation program is, relative to the standards. The module concludes with you developing a plan for implementation of the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation.

Implementing Simulation in the Curriculum

This module will provide information on best practices in the implementation of simulation in a course, program and/or curriculum. The learner will be introduced to the concept of a strategic vision for integration involving all stakeholders and a plan for assessment and evaluation. A six-step approach to curricular development is presented. In addition, learners are introduced to key simulation concepts, methodologies, and educational strategies.

Developing a Simulation Center

Implementation of a simulation center is full of complex issues including staff, faculty, simulation scenario development, professional development, budget, equipment, assets, supplies, and much more. This module will provide information to begin the development of a simulation center that meets the standards of best practice for simulation operations. It will provide strategic thinking related to budgeting, revenue, equipment and assets. This is an introduction to center development and is not a comprehensive course.

Basics of Debriefing in Simulation

This module provides an introduction to simulation debriefing. It includes information about how to facilitate debriefing, common simulation debriefing methods and the role of feedback in debriefing. In session one, a history of debriefing will be reviewed. The INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation Debriefing will be reviewed, and the role of feedback will be presented. Session two includes several communication strategies that are important with debriefing. Finally, session three presents information about common healthcare debriefing methods.

Evaluation Methods in Simulation

In simulation evaluation, beginning with the end in mind is critical. Why was the simulation scenario written in the first place? What need is this simulation filling within your program? Or, if simulation is already being used, is some modification needed to get your simulation or course where you want it to be? Is my simulation program contributing to improved patient care, higher test scores for learners? Evaluations provide useful data for educators, deans, hospital administrators, stake holders, funding agencies, and yes, even the learners themselves. This module will introduce you to Kirkpatrick’s 4 Levels of Evaluation, a commonly used framework in simulation. We will consider some current existing tools to evaluate simulation experiences and facilitators. And we will provide suggestions for ways to evaluate your simulation program. A word about translating this evaluation approach to your own culture. My approach to evaluation is a very western model. Please consider what I say here and adapt this to fit with your own country or cultural approach to evaluation. Begin with the end in mind- as you start a simulation program. Evaluation is continuous and ongoing…we can evaluate the scenarios, teaching or facilitation of a scenario, student outcomes, etc.

SPs in Simulation

Welcome to Module 7: SPs and Simulation. This module consists of four sessions. We will start this session by clarifying the term SP and introducing the Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE) Standards of Best Practice (SOBP) which will be referenced throughout all of the sessions. Then I will discuss the role and function and SPs in simulation. The second session will focus on developing SP scenarios or cases. The third session will focus on recruiting SPs and training them for role portrayal. In the last session, I will discuss SP program management and opportunities for professional development for those training SPs and administering SP activities. So let’s get started.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Taught by experts in the health sciences who are recognized for their work in clinical simulations. Includes Pamela Slaven-Lee, Karen Lewis, Suzan Kardong-Edgren, Pamela R. Jeffries, Crystel Farina, Sabrina Beroz, and Kristina Thomas Dreifuerst

Develops skills in implementing clinical simulations, developing simulation centers, debriefing in simulation, evaluating simulation methods, and using standardized patients (SPs) in simulation

Provides foundational knowledge and best practices in clinical simulations that can be applied across health professions, with a focus on the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

Content is aligned with the objectives and covers key components of clinical simulation, including getting started, standards, implementation, developing a simulation center, debriefing, evaluation methods, and using SPs

Multi-modal course combining videos, readings, and discussion, providing diverse learning experiences

Requires prerequisite knowledge, indicating the course is designed for individuals with an understanding of clinical simulation

Reviews summary

Essentials of clinical simulations in health professions

learners say this course is largely positive and engaging with well done lectures and excellent instructors. The course covers essential topics like designing, implementing, and evaluating clinical simulations in various healthcare professions. It provides valuable resources, including handouts, readings, and quizzes, to enhance learning. Participants appreciate the focus on best practices and evidence-based simulation techniques. Overall, this course is seen as a comprehensive and informative resource for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their simulation skills without requiring previous experience. The course also offers up-to-date insights into the future of simulation with a strong focus on innovation and emerging technologies.

Quizzes were challenging but fair and helped reinforce learning.

"I wish there was more information related to other clinical simulations than just nursing and medical students."

"This course was truly informational and comprehensive regarding simulation."

"Helpful course for getting a more in-depth understanding of simulations and the bodies that govern best practice."

The course was well paced and offered flexible learning options.

"The course was well paced and delivered basics of simulation"

"This course was a great way to implement a simulation program within your university."

"I found this course to be quite flexible and easy to follow."

Course design included a variety of engaging activities, such as quizzes and discussions.

"This course was extremely helpful for the beginner to learn information about clinical simulations."

"I would have like to see more means of content with this being a virtual class (ie interactive content such as games ect) as it felt very repetitive."

"I love the different methods provided for all learners."

Lectures were informative and easy to follow with clear organization.

"The course is written with great care and can be understood by people who are new to this field of simulation."

"I really enjoyed the course and the knowledge received is priceless."

"The lectures were very upper level except for the SP which gave some examples and videos."

Resources provided essential materials like handouts and links to studies.

"This course validated my practice."

"It gave me a lot to reflect upon concerning our simulation program."

"This course provides links to resources and offers many options on best practices."

Instructors were experienced experts who shared their knowledge and best practices.

"Excellent course with relevant content, great advice on managing simulation programs, and thoughtful questions to make the student think about how best to implement evidence-based simulation."

"This course was extremely helpful for the beginner to learn information about clinical simulations."

"Excellent course by top notch nursing professionals and experts in clinical simulations."

There were some technical difficulties with accessing links and resources.

"Some resources such as template in course 7 were not available."

"many of the links were broken in the course materials and the download options are hard to find."

"Some of the links to resources are broken (especially in week 2) which is why I gave the program only 4 stars."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions with these activities:

Review INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation

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Review the foundational concepts of INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation to ensure a solid understanding of the essential principles governing simulation-based education.

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Read through the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation document.
Identify the key principles and requirements outlined in each standard.

Practice Debriefing Techniques

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Debriefing is an essential part of simulation. Practice different debriefing techniques to become more effective at providing feedback to learners.

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Identify the goals of debriefing.
Review different debriefing techniques.
Practice debriefing with a partner.
Get feedback on your debriefing skills.

Participate in a Simulation-Based Case Discussion

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Engage in discussions with peers to analyze simulation cases, share insights, and enhance your understanding of clinical decision-making.

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Review the provided simulation case materials.
Participate in the discussion, sharing your perspectives and analysis.

Seven other activities

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Conduct Regular Debriefing Practice Sessions

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Regularly engage in debriefing practice to refine your skills, improve your facilitation techniques, and build confidence in leading debriefing sessions.

Browse courses on Simulation

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Select a short simulation scenario.
Conduct the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.

Simulate a Nursing Scenario Using SP's

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This simulation is an excellent way to apply knowledge from the course and provides a real-world experience with simulated patients. This will help refine the skills that are learned from more traditional materials, such as textbooks and online modules.

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Read the simulation scenario and identify the learning objectives.
Gather the necessary equipment and materials.
Prepare for the simulation by practicing and rehearsing.
Conduct the simulation and debrief.

Explore GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives

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Delve into the resources and initiatives offered by GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives to enhance your knowledge and skills in simulation-based education.

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Visit the GW Nursing Simulation Initiatives website.
Review the available resources and materials.

Attend a Simulation Debriefing Workshop

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Participate in a dedicated workshop to develop your skills in facilitating effective debriefing sessions, a crucial aspect of simulation-based education.

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Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and exercises.

Create a Simulation Debriefing Guide

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Develop a comprehensive guide that outlines best practices, techniques, and resources for conducting effective debriefing sessions in simulation-based education.

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Research various debriefing models and techniques.
Compile a collection of resources and tools to support debriefing.
Create a step-by-step guide to facilitate debriefing sessions.

Facilitate a Simulation Debriefing Session

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Engage in peer-facilitated debriefing sessions to gain practical experience and receive feedback on your facilitation skills.

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Collaborate with peers to select a simulation scenario.
Lead the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.
Seek feedback from peers on your facilitation skills.

Design and Implement a Simulation-Based Training Module

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Challenge yourself with the development and implementation of a comprehensive simulation-based training module, showcasing your ability to apply course concepts in a practical setting.

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Identify a specific training need or competency to be addressed.
Design the simulation scenario and develop the necessary materials.
Conduct the simulation and facilitate the debriefing session.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the training module.

Career center

Learners who complete Essentials in Clinical Simulations Across the Health Professions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Simulation-Based Learning Consultant

Simulation-Based Learning Consultants provide guidance and support to organizations that are developing or implementing simulation-based training programs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the field of clinical simulation, including the latest research and best practices. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation-Based Learning Consultants to effectively advise organizations on the development and implementation of simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation-Based Learning Consultant

Simulation Healthcare Educator

Simulation Healthcare Educators are responsible for creating and facilitating simulation-based learning experiences for healthcare professionals. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing a simulation center, implementing simulation in the curriculum, and evaluating simulation programs. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Healthcare Educators to effectively design and deliver simulation-based learning experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Healthcare Educator

Simulation Program Manager

Simulation Program Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of simulation-based training programs. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing a simulation center, implementing simulation in the curriculum, and evaluating simulation programs. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Program Managers to effectively lead and manage simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Program Manager

Simulation Specialist

Simulation Specialists are responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating simulation-based training programs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the field of clinical simulation, including the latest research and best practices. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Specialists to effectively develop and deliver simulation-based training programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Specialist

Simulation Designer

Simulation Designers are responsible for creating simulation-based learning experiences. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Designers to effectively create simulation-based learning experiences that meet the needs of learners.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Designer

Simulation Administrator

Simulation Administrators are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a simulation center. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Simulation Administrators to effectively manage a simulation center.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Administrator

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum Developers are responsible for developing and implementing educational programs and curricula. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Curriculum Developers to effectively develop and implement simulation-based educational programs and curricula.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers are responsible for designing and developing learning materials and experiences. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Instructional Designers to effectively design and develop simulation-based learning materials and experiences.

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Education Researcher

Education Researchers are responsible for conducting research on the effectiveness of educational programs and interventions. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Education Researchers to effectively conduct research on the effectiveness of simulation-based learning programs.

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Training Specialist

Training Specialists are responsible for developing and delivering training programs for healthcare professionals. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences. These skills and knowledge are essential for Training Specialists to effectively develop and deliver simulation-based training programs.

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Simulation Technician

Simulation Technicians are responsible for operating and maintaining simulation equipment. This course may be useful for Simulation Technicians who want to learn more about the principles and best practices of clinical simulation. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

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Clinical Educator

Clinical Educators are responsible for teaching and training healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. This course may be useful for Clinical Educators who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

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Physician Assistant Faculty

Physician Assistant Faculty are responsible for teaching and training physician assistant students. This course may be useful for Physician Assistant Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

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Medical School Faculty

Medical School Faculty are responsible for teaching and training medical students. This course may be useful for Medical School Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

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Nursing Faculty

Nursing Faculty are responsible for teaching and training nursing students. This course may be useful for Nursing Faculty who are interested in using simulation-based learning to enhance their teaching and training. It provides a strong foundation in the principles and best practices of clinical simulation, including the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation. It also covers topics such as developing simulation scenarios, training standardized patients, and debriefing simulation experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nursing Faculty