Using Simulation-Based Mastery Learning to Achieve Excellent Learning Outcomes in Physical Therapist Education

The 2 aims of this observational study are (a) to describe the implementation and feasibility of a bed mobility skills simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) curricular module for physical therapist students and (b) to measure learning outcomes and student perceptions of this module.

Simulation-based mastery learning is an outcome-based educational approach that has been successful in other health professions but has not been explored in physical therapy education.

Eighty-seven students in a single cohort of a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

The SBML module in this pretest-posttest study included a pretest, instruction, initial posttest, and additional rounds of instruction and assessment as needed for all learners to achieve the minimum passing standard (MPS) set using the Mastery Angoff and Patient Safety methods. Outcome measures were bed mobility assessment pass rates and scores, additional student and faculty time compared with a traditional approach, and student perceptions of their self-confidence and the module.

All students achieved the MPS after 3 rounds of training and assessment beyond the initial posttest. Mean Total Scores improved from 67.6% (12.9%) at pretest to 91.4% (4.8%) at mastery posttest ( P < .001, Cohen's d = 1.8, 95% CI [1.4-2.1]); mean Safety Scores improved from 75.2% (16.0%) at pretest to 100.0% (0.0%) at mastery posttest ( P < .001, Cohen's d = 1.5, 95% CI [1.2-1.9]). Students who did not achieve the MPS at the initial posttest ( n = 30) required a mean of 1.2 hours for additional instruction and assessment. Survey results revealed an increase in student confidence ( P < .001) and positive student perceptions of the module.

Implementation of this SBML module was feasible and resulted in uniformly high levels of bed mobility skill acquisition. Based on rigorous learning outcomes, feasible requirements for implementation, and increased student confidence, SBML offers a promising approach for wider implementation in physical therapy education.