Self-Learning Methodology in Simulated Environments (MAES©): Elements and Characteristics

The features and pedagogical foundations of self-learning methodology in simulated environments (MAES) are discussed in this article. MAES has six elements (team selection and creation of group identity, voluntary choice of subject of study, establishment of baseline and programming skills to be acquired through brainstorming, design of a clinical simulation scenario in which the students practice the skills to be acquired, execution of the simulated clinical experience, and finally debriefing and presentation of the acquired skills) that develop sequentially to achieve a high level of skills acquisition by students working in teams. The students direct their learning, design simulation scenarios, and discuss the outcomes and related scientific evidence under the guidance of a facilitator. (C) 2016 International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.