| As the nursing shortage increases, educational institutions are exploring alternative methods to produce competent and confident graduates. Many nursing programs are investigating the use of HFS as an active teaching strategy aimed at improving critically thinking and self-confidence. This study utilized an experimental, control group design to determine if the use of high fidelity simulation in conjunction with role modeling had a measurable impact on the acquisition of critical thinking skills and self efficacy in students.A convenience sample of 67 senior baccalaureate nursing students was utilized. The experimental group participated in a high fidelity simulation and debriefing with role modeling, while the control group participated in a high fidelity simulation and debriefing without role modeling. During the second scenario, the lead nurse in each scenario was rated utilizing the Professional Judgment Rating Form.All students completed a demographic questionnaire, the Self-Confidence in Learning instrument and the Simulation Design Scale. Results from the Self-Confidence in Learning instrument indicated no significant difference noted (t(65) = 1.386, p = 0.170) between the control and experimental groups. Results from the Simulation Design Scale indicated that students rated all five subscales as "significant and important" (Mean=4.17-4.82, SD=0.30-0.75) and no significant difference was noted between the control and experimental groups with respect to the different SD sub-scales: (objectives and information t(60) = 1.856, p = .070, support t(60) = .207, p = .836, problem-solving t(59) = 1.188, p = .240, feedback t(59) = 0.062, p = .951, and fidelity/realism t(59) = 1.081, p = .284). In addition, results from the Professional Judgment Rating Form indicated no significant difference between the two groups with respect to the critical thinking scores (t(33) = -0.300, p = .766).Although, HFS in conjunction with role modeling did not produce statistically significant differences in the critical thinking or self-confidence scores additional inquiry may be warranted. This study demonstrated the importance to student satisfaction and self confidence of the simulation design features in scenario construction and application. In addition, the complexity of the scenario chosen and the skill level of the students are important factors for educators to consider. |
