Addressing the gap in educators’ use of simulation teaching and learning

Abstract

Simulation-based teaching in healthcare education is expanding due to reduced clinical placement opportunities and heightened patient safety concerns (Cook et al., 2011; Kirkman et al., 2014; MaGaghie et al., 2011). To address the growing need for educator training in simulation pedagogy, the Erasmus+ funded ISPAD project developed an intensive 5 ECTS programme at EQF Level 6. This programme brought together 20 academics from 7 European countries—Italy, Malta, England, Wales, Ireland, Norway, and Finland—for a 5-day residential session, complemented by online and self-directed learning. Developed by the University of Malta and Lahti University of Applied Sciences, the programme was evaluated through both qualitative and quantitative methods. This presentation critically discusses the rationale, development, and implementation of the programme. Challenges and lessons learned in engaging a culturally diverse group of educators with a wide range of understandings of simulation pedagogy are explored, contributing to future similar international initiatives.