SofDecisionSim™, a cloud and mobile-based simulation platform, enhances decision-making and assesses the competency gap between training and patient outcomes.
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Anthea Arkcoll
onto EDEL subject scoops April 2, 2014 7:37 PM
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Software for generating scenario based simulations, with a medical emphasis.
Simulations are an excellent way of creating situated learning cases that match the proximal zone of development of the learner. A basic characteristic of a constructivist learning environment is the use of learning groups consisting of small numbers of heterogeneous students. Software based simulations allow multiple small groups to operating simultaneously, offering a scalability seldom found with physical simulations.
Problem based learning is one of the pedagogical models which meets the goal of constructivist learning. Within the medical field, cognitive apprenticeships and communities of practice are other pedagogies which provide a constructivist approach.
The requirement of teachers to provide relevant authentic tasks for their learners, who may display marked variation in development, places a heavy demand on preparation of learning materials. Tools such as Decision Simulation, which are tailored to the medical field and are more intuitive in the structuring of information for facilitators in the field, can reduce production time. Despite this it takes considerable resources to create simulations.
The complexity of scenarios in Decision Simulation are controlled by the activity designer. Rich media can be embedded in or linked from the software (augmentation in the SAMR model). Then fidelity of the simulation should be appropriate to the current skill level of the learner and the complexity of the learning target. Too much realism and complexity can be distracting for novice learners (Maran and Glavin, 2003). This software was selected by the Med Star National Rehabilitation Hospital when conducting studies on the efficacy of simulations, due to the ease of authoring and customising scenarios (Schladen and Pineda, 2009).
The cost of packages such as Decision Simulation mean that it is primarily taken up by large medical organisations, medical training institutions and government departments, such as the US Department of Veterans' Affairs.
The main reason that I was drawn to investigate it was the apparent quality of the metrics collected. As Eric Mazur says, "the plural of anecdotes is not data". The metrics makes this software a quality tool for assessment purposes as well as for training and performance management. The immediate provision of specific and quality feedback is a key to the recall of information. The feedback in Decision Simulation can be given immediately to reinforce a behaviour, deferred so the learner experiences the consequence of their decision making or withheld for the purpose of assessment. it is adaptive and can be personalised to the individual learner, showing their profile of performance against objectives which are determined at the time of designing the module. Although it should be noted that equally important as the structure of the feedback is the manner in which it's delivered. Is should affirm learners on aspects performed well and encourage them to gain their own insights into their performance, focusing on solutions to any problems rather than the problem itself (Rock, 2009).
Value lies in the inclusion of metrics such as the order of decisions, and the time taken to reach decisions, in addition to analysis of specific clinical choices (redefinition on the SAMR model). This should provide a greater insight into the learners confidence as well as assessing competence and areas of potential knowledge gap.
The software can create simulations targeting individuals (e.g. for performance management) small groups, interdisciplinary teams or large groups. Sessions may be synchronous or asynchronous, Particularly for synchronous learning 'think aloud' activities can be incorporated to target both reflection and practice in articulating thoughts and decision processes.
I see tools such as this having great value in providing information about every learner, in a way that general tutorial sessions don't, as performance is not dependent on their comfort and willingness to speak out in front of the group.
The storytelling nature of well crafted simulations can serve as the key to create emotional engagement, which in turn supports learning by facilitating the flow of content from short to long term memory.
Maran, , N. & Glavin, R. (2003). Low -to-high-fidelity simulation - a continuum of medical education. Medical Education. 37, Suppl1: 22-28.
Rock, D. (2009). Your Brain at Work. Harper Collins, New York:NY.
Schladen, M.M. & Pineda, C. G. (2009). Enhancing clinical education and training, improving care. Patient Safety and Quality Healthcare. Lionheart Publishing. Marietta:GA.