Determining student engagement in bedside and remote observation of patient simulation: A pilot study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine which design is more effective in engaging observers, remotely or at the bedside. MethodsThis mixed methods study of a convenient sample of 109 nursing students and 19 faculty observing simulation. Participants were surveyed after each scenario. At the end of the semester, participants were surveyed, and focus groups were conducted. ResultsSeventy-five percent of the faculty felt that observing at the bedside kept the students more engaged and interested. Approximately 67% of students felt that observing at the bedside kept them more engaged and interested than remote observation. 55% of students and 58% of faculty preferred bedside observation. DiscussionPrograms with limited resources that have a traditional learning resource laboratory with a bed and bedside table can still be effective with simulation. Students that are observing simulation can stay interested, engaged and attentive. Students and faculty preferred observing at the bedside rather than through an audiovisual system.