Summary

In this video we will discuss the key considerations for implementing simulation into an existing curriculum. What we mean by implementing simulation into a curriculum is to move from the design of isolated simulation exercises to a comprehensive approach that pushes the adoption of simulation as a teaching tool across the entire educational program.

The main activities of this process are:

• Needs assessment
• Setting learning objectives
• Simulation design
• Logistics and resource management
• Faculty training

The first step is to identify where simulation can add value and enhance learning in the current curriculum. This involves pinpointing areas where students struggle with abstract concepts or have limited practical application opportunities due to safety or feasibility constraints. Gathering input from student representatives, reviewing course satisfaction data, and exploring literature on previous implementations can guide this needs assessment process.

Once gaps are identified, it is crucial to define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) learning objectives that simulation can address. Well-crafted objectives target precise areas for improvement and allow progress tracking, aiding in justifying resource allocation.

The objectives defined will then drive the design of the simulations activities. Simulations must align with learning objectives and learner levels: factors like complexity, timing within the curriculum, medical terminology, and pre-briefing requirements should be calibrated appropriately. The different simulation modalities (manikin-based, standardized patients, skills trainers, etc.) must be evaluated to chose the one that best fits the targeted competencies, learner levels, and available resources.

Implementing simulation at a curriculum level often involves large student cohorts, necessitating meticulous resource planning. Aspects like required equipment, room allocations, facilitator staffing, and scheduling demand strategic decision-making to optimize resource utilization while achieving learning goals within constraints.

Among the most critical resources there are staff and time/space. 
Building a strong faculty team for simulation-based education is an ongoing challenge. Strategies to increase the number of facilitators include internal training cycles, where senior faculty train newer members, while the use of peer-to-peer education models among the students can reduce the need of senior facilitator. Vertical (senior students teaching juniors) and horizontal (same-level students teaching different topics) approaches can reduce facilitation needs while enhancing student engagement.

Other challenges that can hinder the process of implementing simulation in a curriculum include the high costs of simulation technology, and also a sort of resistance to changement. In the video we discuss some potential strategies, like seeking funding opportunities, involving stakeholders through demonstration events and having a set of objective measures to show advances and achievements.