[Computerized simulations in nursing education. Faculty of Medical Sciences of Pinar del Rio, 1982-1995]

This study is based on a pedagogical experience obtained with the use of computerized simulations in the baccalaureate degree program. It consists in preparing under certain technical norms a situation reflecting a real event the student will face in the future. It is aimed at showing the level of effectiveness attained by automated simulations in Nursing education, comparing it with the traditional methods (seminars). Two groups were organized to this end: a case base study with simulations, and a control group with the traditional method. 38 4th-year nursing students who were passing through the Community Health Nursing rotation took part in this study. On analyzing the results by frequent evaluations and final tests, it was proved that it is easier for students to get 5 at traditional seminars, which may be caused by the rigorousness of simulations, since they measure all the students' decisions individually. Students using simulations obtained better qualitative results in the final evaluation. The time used for the development of simulations was no langer than 15 minutes. Students consider the method as useful, since it allows them, to get closer to computers, to prepare for the future and to develop creativity. It is concluded that simulations should be used as an evaluation system.