Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Creation of a High-Fidelity, Low-Cost, Intraosseous Line Placement Task Trainer via 3D Printing
Published on: August 17, 2022
The effectiveness of infant simulators
Scott W Roberts1, Richard J McCowan
1Department of Health and Wellness, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, New York 14222, USA. robertsw@buffalostate.edu
Insights
Infant simulators effectively teach childcare skills to adolescents. Combining simulators with a structured curriculum can positively alter teen attitudes toward parenting and sexuality.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health Education
Background:
- Adolescent parenting education programs aim to reduce unintended pregnancies and improve child outcomes.
- Infant simulators offer a realistic, risk-free method for practicing infant care.
- Structured curricula are essential for effective skill acquisition and attitude change.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of infant simulators in teaching adolescent childcare skills.
- To assess the impact of a competency-based curriculum on adolescent parenting attitudes.
- To examine changes in adolescent attitudes toward sexual behavior and parenting.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 236 adolescents (ages 14-18).
- Experimental group received a New York State parenting curriculum using infant simulators.
- Control group did not receive the intervention.
Main Results:
- Infant simulators proved effective in imparting childcare skills.
- The curriculum significantly modified adolescent attitudes toward sexuality and parenting.
- Positive behavioral changes in infant care were observed in the experimental group.
Conclusions:
- Infant simulators are a valuable tool for adolescent parenting education.
- Competency-based curricula enhance the effectiveness of simulator training.
- Interventions can positively influence adolescent decision-making regarding sexuality and parenting.
Abstract:
This study investigated the effect of using infant simulators with a structured, competency-based curriculum by examining the infant care behavior of adolescents and their attitudes toward parenting and sexual behavior. The sample of 236 students included 112 males and 124 females ranging in age from 14 to 18 years. This sample was randomly assigned to an experimental group of 174 and a control group of 62. The experimental group completed the New York State parenting curriculum, which focused on reflection-based parenting skills with specific childcare competencies. The findings indicate that the infant simulator is an effective tool for teaching childcare skills. When combined with a well-designed curriculum, it enhances the likelihood that student attitudes toward sexuality/parenting issues can be significantly modified.
