Can an Expert Modeling Video Enhance Readiness and Performance in Simulation? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Simulation-Based Learning
• Clinical Skills Training

Background:

• Simulation-based education is vital for clinical competence.
• Learners often feel uncertain about simulation expectations.
• Expert modeling videos (EMVs) may reduce anxiety and improve confidence, but evidence is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an EMV on veterinary students' preparation, confidence, affect, and performance during a euthanasia simulation.
• To compare the effects of an EMV versus a psychological safety video on student outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 40 Veterinary Technology and Veterinary Medical Assistant students.
• Intervention group viewed an EMV of a feline euthanasia consultation; control group viewed a psychological safety video.
• Assessed self-reported knowledge, preparedness, and confidence pre/post-video, and affective states and communication skills (Calgary-Cambridge Guide) pre/post-simulation.

Main Results:

• The EMV group showed immediate post-video gains in confidence, knowledge, and preparedness compared to controls.
• Veterinary Medical Assistant students showed greater improvements in some measures.
• Post-simulation, the EMV group reported reduced anxiety and perceived greater benefits from the video.
• No consistent differences in overall communication skills performance were observed between groups.

Conclusions:

• EMVs can enhance students' perceived readiness and reduce anxiety before simulations.
• Observed benefits in confidence and preparedness may not directly translate to improved clinical skills performance.
• EMVs are valuable for affective preparation but require complementary strategies for skill transfer.