Integrative Learning Through Simulation and Problem-Based Learning

Background: An integrative framework was used to guide the teaching, learning, and assessment approach taken in a final-year undergraduate nursing module. Method: Students participated in three cycles of problem-based learning and associated simulations. An assessment rubric focused on patient assessment, clinical decision making, and technical and communication skills was used by students and assessors to score simulation performances. This study evaluated the trajectory of assessor and student self-assessed simulation performance scores over the course of the module. Results: Descriptive statistics for assessors' scores show a mean improvement in all 4 competencies and for overall performance. Students' self-assessed scores do not show a mean improvement but are more closely aligned with assessor scores for later simulations. (C) 2013 International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.