The synergistic role of virtual coaching with simulation-based mastery learning for upper endoscopy

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Gastroenterology
• Simulation Training

Background:

• Simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) is effective for novice esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) training.
• Virtual coaching (VC) offers potential to enhance EGD training effectiveness, efficiency, and accessibility worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of an SBML curriculum delivered with virtual coaching for novice EGD trainees.
• To compare clinical performance and learning outcomes of trainees in a virtual coaching EGD course with a historical in-person cohort.

Main Methods:

• A 1-week virtual SBML course was conducted for 21 novice trainees across seven academic centers.
• Technical skills were supervised by a virtual coach, with local coaches providing in-person assistance.
• Trainee performance was assessed using validated simulation and clinical competency tools, compared to an in-person SBML cohort.

Main Results:

• Novice trainees achieved mastery in simulation tasks, with performance comparable to the in-person SBML group.
• Clinical competence was reached at a similar rate compared to the historical in-person control group.
• Knowledge-based assessments were also comparable between virtual and direct coaching methods.

Conclusions:

• Virtual coaching (VC) is a feasible and effective method for training novice gastroenterology trainees in EGD.
• VC enables scaling of SBML courses, broadening access to expert instruction across multiple international sites.
• This approach maintains high standards in endoscopy education delivery.