SIG: Simulation in Learning and Teaching (SLT)

A/Professor Kerry Reid-Searl
Convenor

Purpose

To develop a network of individuals who are interested in both teaching and research around simulation across disciplines.

Because simulation is such a broad topic, until this SIG is established with research outcomes, the initial focus will be in the use of high fidelity simulation (HFPLS). Membership will be sought from interested persons across CQUniversity and in the wider community who have an interest in this method.

Strategic Deliverables

This SIG has a focus on innovative simulation strategies currently being implemented at CQUniversity Australia. The initial focus will be on high fidelity patient latex simulation (HFPLS)- a technique pioneered in the area of nursing. HFPLS has been selected as it is unique to CQUniversity and is relevant to multiple disciplines including education, social work, midwifery and psychology. 

Members

SLT currently has 26 Members (Last updated March 2011)

Additional Detail

High Fidelity Patient Latex Simulation

HFPLS is a simulation strategy initially pioneered by Dr Kerry Reid Searl and involves the use of life-like commercially prepared latex masks and body parts adorned over the body of the teacher/educator as a means to mimic real human situations and responses. Playing the role of the patient, the latex enables the educator's face to be masked and in turn a personality of a patient is created along with a history. The patient becomes real and experiences health related issues. Behind the mask, the educator is able to react to a given situation, prompt learners to consider different aspects of the care/ skill and create a situation where learners can interact with the patient. The patient (and educator behind the mask) can communicate high expectations about the care/ skill to be delivered and then give immediate feedback to the student about the care/ skills they provided. Furthermore the student had the opportunity to practice the requisite skills and techniques in a realistic, safe and non threatening environment. 

It is believed that HFPLS is not limited to nursing, rather it is relevant to other disciplines. Projects relating to HFPLS from this SIG will include:

• Consultation with CQUniversity Communities of Practice simulation interest group who will serve as a feed groupr into this SIG
• Research to determine if HFPLS is an effective teaching strategy
• Research to determine how HFPLS can be transferred into different learning contexts
• Community engagement to promote HFPLS as a teaching strategy
• ‘Think tanks' with other disciplines to determine how HFPLS can be utilized by others including
  • Skills required
  • Resources required
  • Pedagogy behind the strategies
  • Frameworks for the teaching and learning of HFPLS
  • The incorporation of animation into HFPLS
  • Future research directions

• The identification of higher degree students who may wish to explore HFPLS

CQUni News
The 'masked educator' unmasked as an identical twin, published 8th April 2011