Simulation: an effective pedagogical approach for nursing?

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Pedagogy
• Healthcare Simulation

Background:

• Simulation is integral to undergraduate nursing curricula, offering opportunities for clinical skill development.
• Existing literature often emphasizes operational aspects of simulation rather than its theoretical foundations.
• There is a need to explore the pedagogical value of simulation in preparing future nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reflect on the evolution of simulation in nurse education.
• To examine the theoretical positioning of simulation as a teaching and learning approach.
• To explore the theoretical basis of simulation for undergraduate nursing skills development.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the evolution and theoretical underpinnings of simulation.
• Analysis of key theoretical frameworks, including Vygotsky's and Lave and Wenger's work.
• Discussion of simulation as a pedagogical approach in nursing.

Main Results:

• Simulation's role in nursing education has evolved beyond operational concerns.
• Theoretical frameworks support simulation as an effective pedagogical tool.
• Simulation facilitates the development of competence and confidence in student nurses.

Conclusions:

• Simulation is a vital pedagogical approach in contemporary nursing education.
• Understanding the theoretical basis enhances the effectiveness of simulation for skill development.
• Simulation enables students to effectively learn the practice of nursing.