An investigation into sonography student experiences of simulation teaching and learning in the acquisition of clinical skills

Gibbs, Vivien

Abstract

©, 2014, SAGE Publications Ltd. All rights reserved. Technological developments are impacting on many aspects of life, including education. One particular area of technology where there is growing interest within higher education institutions (HEIs) offering healthcare training is the use of simulators. The literature shows diverging views on the role of simulated learning in healthcare and further evaluation is needed to explore the quality of learning opportunities that are offered, and their effectiveness in the preparation of students for clinical practice. A qualitative study was undertaken, using interviews to explore the experiences of a group of sonography students after interacting with an ultrasound simulator. Simulation was positively evaluated by students inthis study. The findings confirm that simulated learning enables students to be interactive learners rather than beingpassive recipients of knowledge. Simulated learning provides learning opportunities in a risk free environment, which reduces stress for the student and potential harm to patients. Confidence levels were increased, thereby improving futureclinical scanning experiences for both the student and their patients. Suggestions were made for the more effectiveintegration of simulated learning into the curriculum. Continued research into simulation, teaching and learning practices needs to occur if we are to ensure maximum advantage of the simulation experience.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2014
• Deposit Date: Mar 23, 2015
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 17, 2016
• Journal: Ultrasound
• Print ISSN: 1742-271X
• Electronic ISSN: 1743-1344
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 22
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 173-178
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1742271X14528491
• Keywords: diagnostic ultrasound training, ultrasound simulator, sonography education
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/814011
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1742271X14528491
• Contract Date: Apr 17, 2016