The value of simulations in the management education of nurses: students' perceptions

This paper examines the use of simulations in the education of student nurses as part of their preparation for management responsibility. A review of the literature indicates that there is little published work on this topic and that those evaluations that have been reported invariably occur at the end of the exercise, thus giving an incomplete picture of the simulation. The nature and format of the simulation, used with 128 students undertaking a pre-registration/diploma in higher education course, is described. Results from student evaluations immediately following the exercise and after 13 weeks of clinical experience are presented. The findings indicate that this is a realistic and enjoyable way of learning which adequately prepares students for management experience in subsequent clinical allocations. Issues concerned with internal and external validity of simulations and areas for further research are explored.