Journey toward integration of simulation in a baccalaureate nursing curriculum

Simulation is increasingly being used as a teaching strategy in nursing education. The best learning outcomes occur when simulation is integrated into the curriculum rather than added to a crowded curriculum. Faculty are challenged to integrate simulation experiences into the curriculum in a way that promotes optimal achievement of student learning objectives. The purpose of this article is to describe the journey toward the integration of simulation in a baccalaureate nursing curriculum. A description of the journey from the beginning, through Health Resources and Services Administration funding, as a participating site in The NCSBN National Simulation Study, and through curricular redesign are presented in the context of faculty growth and lessons learned. The ultimate purpose is to provide guidance to faculty teaching in nursing programs that may be struggling with some of the same issues that beleaguered faculty during our journey.