Perceptions regarding attitude towards simulation-based learning among nursing students in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Simulation-based education is essential for preparing nursing students for their professional roles and enhancing their learning experiences and patient care skills. However, there is a gap in understanding how nursing students perceive and engage with simulation-based learning, particularly in the context of Saudi Arabia. This lack of insight limits the ability to develop effective educational strategies. This study aimed to evaluate nursing students' perceptions regarding attitudes toward simulation-based learning in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024, involving 173 nursing students from a single university. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their attitudes toward simulation-based learning, focusing on its relevance, interprofessional education opportunities, communication, situation awareness, and roles and responsibilities. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to examine correlations between variables, with a significance level of p <0.05. The study found that 91.3% of participants had a favorable attitude toward simulation-based learning (Median = 4.43, IQR = 4 - 5). Age and grade level significantly influenced attitudes; younger students (under 20 years) had lower scores (Z = -2.490, p = 0.013), while fourth-year students had higher scores than third-year students, showing a statistically significant difference (H = 8.573, p = 0.014). Additionally, grade point average (GPA) was a significant factor, as students with GPAs between 5.00 and 4.50 scored higher than those in the 3.74-2.75 range (H = 25.893, p <0.001). The study concluded that nursing students in Saudi Arabia have a generally positive attitude toward simulation-based learning, recognizing its importance in enhancing their educational journey and clinical preparedness. These findings highlight the need to integrate simulation-based pedagogical approaches in nursing education to foster critical thinking and improve communication skills, thereby enhancing patient care outcomes.