Bringing a Global Perspective to Students via Telesimulation

Abstract

The aim of this Simulation Based Experience (SBE) was to replicate a global initiative via a telesimulated environment. Due to COVID-19, all study abroad trips were canceled by both the University and the governments of both the United States and Peru. In order to facilitate the learning goals and objectives, faculty developed a fully functional, online module via Zoom, which simulated in-country experiences. Three four-hour Zoom sessions allowed faculty to utilize INASCL standards of best practice to facilitate SBE activities such as pre and post-operative education for an Embedded Participant (EP) playing the role of patient (INACSL Standards Committee, 2016; Lioce et al., 2020). 80% of students attempted to speak Spanish over the course of the SBE. During the debrief process, students were asked to provide affective words regarding the SBE which indicated trepidation in utilizing the Spanish language and not understanding content. On the final day of simulation, all students found value and collaboration in the process. Telesimulation via Zoom allowed students to be immersed in an unknown culture, and the use of breakout rooms encouraged engagement with EP one-on-one. Zoom for remote simulation is a plausible replacement for HFPS due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Research is needed to explore and compare cultural gains and sensitivity to students in-country versus through remote learning.