MM303 - Simulation in Education: Stories from the Trenches

Abstract:
Simulation is a well-established method for developing hands-on competency and clinical reasoning in health care. Until recently, few tools have been developed for using simulation in Audiology. In this session, we'll briefly talk about three types of simulation, how to apply them, and discuss pitfalls and successes in our own applications of these. Our instructors have lived this experience as student, as teaching assistant, and as instructor in a range of teaching activities and topics. The audience will be encouraged to share thoughts and generate their own ideas for simulation.

Summary:
Simulation is a well-established method for developing hands-on competency and clinical reasoning in health care. Until recently, few tools have been developed for using simulation in Audiology. In this session, we'll briefly talk about two types of simulation, how to apply them, and discuss pitfalls and successes in our own applications of these. Type 1: The use of simulated patients: how can this be adapted to the context of teaching amplification, including how best to teach procedures across the lifespan? Type 2: Physical simulators such as manikins: how to incorporate these using effective simulations, and what are their advantages and disadvantages? Type 3: Objective structured clinical exams: What are they, and how can they assist us in competency evaluation?

Our instructors have lived this experience as student, as teaching assistant, and as instructor in a range of teaching activities and topics. We will present the methodology, rationale, evidence, and clear examples for each strategy in practice, keeping our focus on the teaching of amplification procedures. The audience will be encouraged to share thoughts and generate their own ideas for simulation through the use of audience polling and discussion. Concrete takeaways will include structured knowledge of not just simulation but also its subtypes, and thought-providing examples and discussion on how to make it work in the classroom or clinic.