Develop, Sustain, and Evaluate the Training of Simulation Educators: An Exploratory Longitudinal Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation Education
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Developing simulation educator competency is vital for learner outcomes.
• Limited guidelines exist for sustaining simulation training and evaluating programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a professional development workshop (PDW) on individuals developing, sustaining, and evaluating simulation educator training programs.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal exploratory design.
• Utilized the New World Kirkpatrick Model for evaluation.

Main Results:

• 77 participants from diverse backgrounds attended; 56% completed the 6-month study.
• Significant pre-to-post workshop increases in knowledge, confidence, and commitment were observed.
• Facilitators included personal capacity, support, and accountability; barriers were their absence.

Conclusions:

• Establish training program evaluation plans from the beginning.
• Sustain simulation leader and educator training via supportive, reinforcing, monitoring, and rewarding processes.