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

Background: 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. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate nursing students' perceptions regarding attitudes toward simulation-based learning in Saudi Arabia. Methods: 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. Results: 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). Conclusion: 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.