Innovations in applied health: evaluating a simulation-enhanced, interprofessional curriculum

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Curriculum Development
• Clinical Simulation

Background:

• The Michener Institute implemented a New Curriculum Model (NCM) in 2006 to enhance healthcare education.
• The NCM aimed to improve the transition from didactic to clinical settings.
• Interprofessional education and simulated clinical scenarios were key components of the NCM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of the NCM on student preparedness for clinical practicum.
• This pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of the new curriculum intervention.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods evaluation approach was employed.
• Data were collected through student and clinical educator surveys.
• Qualitative feedback was gathered from focus groups.

Main Results:

• Clinical educators reported Michener NCM students were significantly better prepared for clinical practicum (p < 0.05%).
• Students observed significant improvements as implementation issues were resolved over time.
• The NCM demonstrated a positive impact on student readiness.

Conclusions:

• Integrating simulation and interprofessional education into applied health curricula significantly improved clinical preparedness.
• The Michener NCM successfully bridged the gap between didactic education and clinical practice.
• The curriculum transition fostered the development of more complete healthcare professionals.