The field of audiology has been increasingly incorporating simulation as a teaching and learning strategy within clinical education programs. A recent study, "Students Evaluation of Audiology Simulation Training," published in the Canadian Journal of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, provides valuable insights into the efficacy of simulation training from the perspective of audiology students. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or by encouraging further exploration into simulation training.
Understanding the Study
The study involved 17 Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) students who participated in simulation training that included manikins, standardized parents, case scenarios, debriefing sessions, and assessments. The training was designed to mimic real-life hearing screening and parent counseling scenarios. A 12-item survey was used to gather student feedback on various components of the simulation training.
Key Findings and Recommendations
1. Simulation Environment
- Orientation: While the majority of students felt adequately oriented to the simulation environment, some reported feeling unprepared. To improve, provide general learning objectives without giving away specific details to maintain the element of surprise and learning efficacy.
- Equipment: The study found high satisfaction with the simulation center's equipment. Ensuring that simulation facilities are well-equipped with high-fidelity manikins and other necessary tools can significantly enhance the learning experience.
- Safety: All students agreed that the simulation environment felt safe, which is crucial for effective learning. Facilitators should strive to create a positive emotional climate where students feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes.
2. Learning Experience
- Standardized Patients: The use of standardized parents was highly appreciated. SPs provide reliable feedback from a patient's perspective, which is often not available with real patients. Incorporating SPs into audiology programs can offer students valuable, realistic training experiences.
- Case Scenarios: Realistic and diverse case scenarios are essential. The study used scenarios that represented different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, which helped students develop clinical judgment and decision-making skills.
- Debriefing: Structured debriefing sessions, using models like PEARLS, are critical for reflection and learning. Facilitators should guide discussions to help students understand what went well and what could be improved.
3. Simulation Training Highlights
Students highlighted several exceptional components of the training:
- Safe environment for practice without affecting real patients.
- Realistic case scenarios that provided hands-on experience.
- Effective debriefing sessions that enhanced reflective practice.
Incorporating these elements into simulation training can lead to higher satisfaction and better learning outcomes.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the need for further research. Understanding student perceptions and continuously refining simulation components can lead to more effective training programs. Additional studies could explore the impact of simulation training on professional competencies and long-term clinical skills.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Students Evaluation of Audiology Simulation Training.
