Measurable reflection in simulation: A pilot study

Debriefing is considered a cornerstone in the success of simulated learning practices. For debriefing to be productive and meaningful, reflection of the learners is essential. Measuring reflection during debriefing has proven to be difficult. This study aimed to validate a reflection rubric based on Kolb's Theory of Experiential Learning and integrate the assessment tool into simulation debriefing practice.

This research was a non-experimental mixed-methods, sequential explanatory design. Validation for the rubric was accomplished by expert content review and an observation process. Students participated in a standardized patient simulation (SPS) portraying a patient with bipolar disorder. The SPS debriefings were recorded and thematically coded to determine the quality and level of reflection of the students according to the following rubric criteria based on Kolb's theory: (1) Concrete Experience, (2) Reflective Observation, (3) Abstract Conceptualism, and (4) Active Experimentation. A descriptive statistical analysis of student responses was applied.

The Debriefing Reflection Rubric was successful in determining the level of reflection in the dental hygiene students; further descriptive results were evaluated by a thematic analysis of student responses (N = 173). Student responses demonstrated reflective observations and concrete experiences (n = 112); however, dental hygiene students demonstrated limited responses (n = 61) to abstract conceptualism and connecting their experience to future goals and experimentation.

The Debriefing Reflection Rubric, based on Kolb's Theory of Experiential Learning, was successful in measuring a learner's level and quality of reflection during a simulation debriefing.