Theoretical foundations of learning through simulation

Semin Perinatol. 2011 Apr;35(2):47-51. doi: 10.1053/j.semperi.2011.01.002.

Abstract

Health care simulation is a powerful educational tool to help facilitate learning for clinicians and change their practice to improve patient outcomes and safety. To promote effective life-long learning through simulation, the educator needs to consider individuals, their experiences, and their environments. Effective education of adults through simulation requires a sound understanding of both adult learning theory and experiential learning. This review article provides a framework for developing and facilitating simulation courses, founded upon empiric and theoretic research in adult and experiential learning. Specifically, this article provides a theoretic foundation for using simulation to change practice to improve patient outcomes and safety.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Education, Medical, Continuing / methods
  • Health Personnel / education*
  • Humans
  • Patient Simulation*
  • Physicians
  • Problem-Based Learning*