Author

Amy Goman

Date of Award

5-2010

Document Type

Independent Study

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

As education moves into the 21 51 century technology has become an integral part of the classroom. While simulation has always been part of the nursing education curriculum, new technology has changed how simulation is being used as a teaching method. Nursing programs nationwide are creating expanded simulation sections of learning centers and trying to keep up with the new aspects of technology. At the same time as the application of high-fidelity simulation is being embraced by a large number of nurse educators, the evidence-based research to support the establishment of student learning outcomes is lacking. Without the research to validate outcomes, high-fidelity simulation cannot be used to its greatest potential. The purpose of this project was to investigate the prevalence, areas of use, and evaluation of high-fidelity simulation in professional nursing schools in Minnesota. The infonnation gathered will provide a greater understanding of high-fidelity simulation's impact on nursing curricula in Minnesota. The thirty- nine professional nursing programs, both associate degree and baccalaureate degree, approved for pre-licensure education by the Minnesota State Board of Nursing were invited to participate in the survey project. The dean or director of nursing of each program was sent an email explaining the survey; a web link to the survey was included. The survey was eight questions in length. Data were collected regarding: a) number and type of programs using highfidelity simulation, b) content areas of use, c) theoretical frameworks or models being used, d) evaluation techniques being implemented, e) student outcomes beingachieved, f) actual or perceived barriers to use, and h) how barriers were overcome . The survey was designed to be anonymously completed to protect the identities of the programs. The survey response rate was 54% (n= 39 programs). The findings of this project will help to build an understanding of where and how simulation is being used in Minnesota professional schools of nursing. The information gathered will assist in further advancing evidence-based use of high-fidelity simulation in nursing curricula

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