The Simulation Master Class

The Simulation Master Class (MC) programme was thought to fulfil the widespread need in Italy of a shared approach for medical educators wishing to deliver simulation based training. It builds on educational concepts included in the ERC Generic Instructor Course and in the “InFacT” Instructor course.

The Simulation MC runs four days and is divided into two levels (two days each). In both levels participants receive learning documents to read before the course, are exposed to knowledge (lectures, workshops) and trained on both technical and non technical skills. (skill stations, scenarios, group discussions).

Learning objectives of Level 1 include:

• principles of adult learning, CRM and NTS applied to medicine
• knowing all aspects of high fidelity full scale simulation
• practising all phases of simulation
• experiencing positive and negative reactions as simulation educators
• knowing difficulties and obstacles in order to continue or not the training programme

Learning objectives of Level 2 include :

• being able to recognize non technical aspects of simulation scenarios
• being familiar and confident in briefing candidates, running a successful scenario and in debriefing candidates

Candidates gradually move from the role of novice in a simulator course into the role of a simulator educator. Performing simulations and debriefings is the core of the programme. Intermittent theory sessions are supplemented by workshops, skill stations and structured feedback. Table 1 shows learning sessions available in both levels.

The course faculty includes a Director and facilitators to provide 1/4 teacher/student ratio with a maximum of 16 candidates per course.

Medical students, residents and nurses of the teaching Hospital Policlinico Gemelli in Rome voluntarily attend the course and act as the medical team exposed to scenarios.

Structured video assisted debriefing is provided for all phases of simulation. Specific feedback forms are available to assist facilitators to debrief candidates. Figure 1 shows the feedback form for scenario management. More feedback forms are available for fiction contract and debriefing.

Formative on going assessment is applied. Table 2 and 3 show the programme of Sim MC Level 1 for a 16 students class.

Tab 2

Tab 3