Student Preferences for Virtual or In-Person Interprofessional Education Simulations

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Professions Education
• Simulation in Healthcare

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated changes in pedagogical approaches for interprofessional education (IPE).
• Understanding student preferences for simulation delivery formats is crucial for effective IPE program design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine student preferences for synchronous in-person versus virtual interprofessional education (IPE) simulations.
• To identify factors influencing student choices between in-person and virtual IPE simulation formats.

Main Methods:

• Post-simulation surveys were administered to 844 students across two academic years (2020-2022).
• Students indicated their preferred simulation format: synchronous in-person or virtual.
• Statistical analysis was used to compare preferences between academic years.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in preference for virtual IPE simulations was observed in the 2021-2022 academic year compared to the previous year (p<0.001).
• Reasons for virtual preference included convenience, reduced COVID-19 transmission risk, and eased collaboration.
• Students noted downsides to in-person simulations such as travel logistics and technical issues.
• Conversely, in-person simulations were favored for their resemblance to real-life scenarios and easier non-verbal communication.

Conclusions:

• Student preferences for virtual IPE simulations have grown, driven by practical advantages and safety concerns.
• While virtual formats offer significant benefits, in-person simulations retain value for their realism and direct communication.
• Future IPE program development should consider flexible delivery models to accommodate diverse student preferences and learning needs.