(6) Mapping Evidence for Simulation Facilitator Development in Pre-Registration Health Professions Education: A Scoping Review

Abstract: This review investigates the scope and nature of evidence for developing simulation facilitators within pre-registration health professions programs, addressing a critical gap in healthcare education. With an increasing reliance on simulation to provide safe, structured clinical experiences, high-quality simulation delivery has become essential to fostering self-efficacy, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning in health professional students. However, current literature lacks comprehensive guidance on best practices for simulation facilitator development. Responding to the question what literature exists on simulation facilitator development for simulation facilitators working within pre-registration health professional programs for any type and stage of simulation? This review targets evidence on content, delivery, and evaluation strategies for developing simulation facilitators across all stages of simulation (preparation, pre-briefing, facilitation, debriefing, and evaluation).

Utilizing JBI methodology, we searched CINAHL, Embase, Eric, MEDLINE, and ProQuest Dissertation and Theses databases, screening titles, abstracts, and full texts for eligibility. Inclusion criteria focus on studies about simulation facilitator development within academic settings for pre-registration health professions, excluding studies in professional or graduate-only environments. Data extraction maps evidence of facilitator development approaches using the Facilitator Competency Rubric and Kirkpatrick’s Evaluation Model. This review offers actionable insights for advancing facilitator training in simulation pedagogy and provides a foundation for standardized, evidence-based facilitator development, enhancing the quality of simulation education in health professional programs.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to view your poster.: Simulation is essential in health education, but facilitator development remains inconsistent. This scoping review maps existing evidence on simulation facilitator training, examining content, delivery, and evaluation within pre-registration programs. Attendees will gain insights into best practices for equipping facilitators to deliver safe, effective learning experiences.