Aim: To explore midwifery students' experiences from participating in a level 1 facilitator course, and the maintenance of simulation-based activities.
Background: Student-led simulation is a collaborative learning method where peers engage in simulation training. SimBegin® prepares learners to lead a pre-designed scenario and facilitate debriefing based on reflection. The course with generic scenarios and course leaders from SAFER/Laerdal was piloted for midwifery students in autumn 2022. In 2023 the e-learning was translated into Norwegian, scenarios were given a midwifery profile, midwifery teachers became course-leaders and SimBegin® was implemented in the Master of Midwifery curriculum at the University of Stavanger.
Design: A qualitative, explorative design.
Methods: One individual (n = 1) and one focus group (n = 5) interview were conducted, and written reflections collected (n = 11) from one cohort of students (n = 20) in the pilot intervention in 2022. An additional focus group (n = 6) was organized from another cohort (n = 20). All data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke.
Results: The four themes: 1. Being prepared and experiencing predictability support the learning process 2. A structured course concept enables students to adopt different perspectives 3. Maintaining and practicing Student-led simulation in accordance with SimBegin® 4. SimBegin® as an eye-opener that changed their view on simulation CONCLUSION: SimBegin® enabled students to run SLS to enhance simulation training. SimBegin® promotes critical thinking and is an innovative, experimental, high-quality learning method. The learning outcome is dependent on contextual factors, knowledge, psychological safety, planning, learner involvement and support from teachers and supervisors in clinical placement.
Keywords: Collaborative learning; Facilitator competence; Midwifery students; Reflection; Student-led simulation.
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