Simulation-a new educational paradigm?

Abstract

Simulation is a modern educational tool that has recently gained in the field of medical education. The use of simulation continues to expand, and studies evaluating the effectiveness of simulation-based medical education are ongoing. The history of medical education and adult educational theory are reviewed, and the details of effective simulation techniques are described. Finally, outcomes of simulation-based medical education are summarized.

Keywords: education; outcomes; simulation.

Fig. 1. Insertion of tracheostomy can be practiced by learners in a safe simulation environment without exposing actual patients to any risk

Fig. 2. New technologies and skills can be practiced in a simulated environment prior to performing the procedure on the patient, as, for example, transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Fig. 3. Interactive video-assisted simulators can be used to learn basic skills of transthoracic (A) and transesophageal (B) echocardiogram.

Fig. 4. Task trainers for skills such as endoscopy are in extensive use already.

They allow learners to practice specific visual-spatial skills required for endoscopic surgery.