The technology available to health science programs has grown exponentially. Simulation Labs are at the top of that list, with both 2 and 4-year colleges investing extensive resources into building effective Sim Labs. However, COVID-induced social distancing, tech requirements, and equipment scarcity can make it difficult when there are a number of students who need to use the equipment.
Thankfully, there are ways to maximize the use of your Sim Labs.
A Sim Lab session can be divided into three parts:
- Pre-briefing – The instructor tells students what is expected of them during the scenario.
- Performance of Scenario – Students perform the scenario, including being recorded for review once complete.
- De-briefing – The instructor and student view the recording and determine any areas of deficiency.
This process can be time-consuming (especially if the instructor and student have to repeat the scenario multiple times to ensure the student has fully grasped the skills).
CrossBraining changes that. Students can practice their skills via a CrossBraining lesson and then evaluate themselves prior to ever having to perform for their instructor. CrossBraining allows the instructor to create a pre-briefing complete with pictures, videos, and most importantly: clear, logical steps. Students then view the scenario and record video of themselves performing each step. Once the student uploads the videos, they type a script for a voiceover narration about what they are doing and why. When the student records their voiceovers, any missed steps or incorrectly performed skills will be seen by the student themselves. This serves as the de-briefing and allows the student to redo any incorrect steps, ensuring a complete, finished product for the instructor to view. The instructor can then use this as a “pre-evaluation” prior to scheduling expensive lab time to perform their scenario.
For in-lab situations, since simulation labs are often using patient simulators, there is no risk to the “patient” if students perform these skills without direct observation. This provides students with the opportunity to practice and self-assess and allows the instructor to focus their time on students that may need more one-on-one help in another area of the lab. This is a great tool to use in scenarios such as intubation, catheter insertion, or ostomy care, to name a few. Further, it allows students to practice on the simulators in the environment that they will be assessed in. This reduces assessment anxiety and improves learning.
Creating a CrossBraining Sim Lab scenario takes minutes, and once created it can be assigned to multiple classrooms. In the end, the instructor will save time and provide students with the ability to self-assess and work autonomously to develop their skills and build confidence. All while maximizing the use of simulators in your lab.
