Utilisation of simulation-based learning to decrease student anxiety and increase readiness for clinical placements...

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology education
• Medical simulation
• Clinical preparedness

Background:

• Student anxiety and lack of confidence are common barriers to effective clinical placements in speech-language pathology.
• Simulation-based learning experiences (SBLE) offer a controlled environment to bridge the gap between academic learning and clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of two SBLE versions on speech-language pathology (SLP) students' anxiety, confidence, and preparedness for clinical placements.
• To compare the effectiveness of a standard SBLE with a shorter, more resource-efficient version.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study involving two cohorts of third-year SLP students (n=33).
• Quantitative pre- and post-program ratings of anxiety, confidence, and preparedness.
• Qualitative data from student focus groups and clinical educator interviews.

Main Results:

• Both SBLE versions significantly reduced student anxiety and increased confidence and preparedness.
• No significant differences were observed between the two SBLE versions in terms of outcome measures.
• Qualitative findings corroborated quantitative results, highlighting positive affective changes in students.

Conclusions:

• SBLE is an effective tool for enhancing SLP students' self-perceived readiness for clinical placements.
• A shorter, less resource-intensive SBLE version can achieve comparable outcomes, reducing implementation barriers and costs.