Large-group simulation as a remote learning method in interprofessional health care education - a mixed methods...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Interprofessional Collaboration
• Remote Learning Technologies

Background:

• Remote learning is increasingly prevalent in interprofessional healthcare education.
• Evidence-based strategies for remote learning methods are essential for wider implementation.
• Knowledge regarding the remote execution of interprofessional large-group simulations is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore participants' experiences with a remotely delivered interprofessional large-group simulation.
• To generate insights for the future enhancement of remote interprofessional education.

Main Methods:

• A convergent mixed methods study design was employed.
• Data were collected from 810 Finnish interprofessional healthcare students and professionals.
• An online questionnaire (n=263) and subsequent analysis using descriptive, multivariate, and inductive content methods were utilized.

Main Results:

• The remote interprofessional large-group simulation effectively supported the development of interprofessional collaboration competencies.
• Participants highlighted the immersive structure, diverse pedagogy, real-time discussions, and user-friendly technology as key learning facilitators.
• Professionals reported higher activation levels compared to students during the simulation.

Conclusions:

• The remotely implemented interprofessional large-group simulation is a valuable remote learning strategy.
• Immersive pedagogical approaches facilitated learning goal achievement, with advance remote participation instructions being crucial.
• Effective technological solutions fostered a realistic and engaging learning environment, though further development is needed for enhanced remote participant activation.