Satisfaction and self-confidence among nursing students with simulation learning during COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• COVID-19 Impact

Background:

• Simulation-based learning is crucial for nursing education, developing essential clinical skills.
• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional educational methods, necessitating alternative approaches like simulation.
• Assessing student satisfaction and self-confidence in simulation is vital for effective pedagogical strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate nursing students' satisfaction and self-confidence in simulation education during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To compare satisfaction and self-confidence levels based on student characteristics.
• To identify specific areas within simulation learning that require improvement.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey design was employed.
• Data were collected from 138 undergraduate nursing students at a private university in Jordan.
• The National League for Nursing (NLN) Student Satisfaction and Self-confidence in Learning Scales were utilized.

Main Results:

• Overall student satisfaction and self-confidence in simulation learning were below levels reported in pre-pandemic studies.
• Students reported lowest ratings for the variety of simulation activities and confidence in applying skills to real clinical settings.
• Self-confidence in simulation-based learning positively correlated with advancement through the bachelor's degree program.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted nursing students' simulation learning experiences.
• High-fidelity simulation modalities show promise for enhancing learning in challenging circumstances.
• Investment in high-fidelity simulation resources is recommended to support nursing education recovery post-pandemic.