Effectively facilitate debriefing conversations with this core set of skills used by debriefers around the world.

Debriefing Essentials

Jumpstart your debriefings with advanced skills and strategies designed to enhance learning outcomes across contexts.

Advanced Debriefing

Learn how to design, develop and implement simulation-based learning within your healthcare organization.

Simulation Foundations

The Debriefing Essentials course introduces core concepts that form the foundation for effective debriefing conversations.  Faculty discuss conceptual frameworks that provide guidance for developing debriefing expertise. The role of psychological safety and blended method of debriefing is emphasized, along with the conversational strategies that can be used to engage and motivate learners.  Faculty development strategies, such as peer coaching, self and group reflection, and fellowship training are highlighted, with tips on how to build an effective team of facilitators within a simulation program.

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What is this course about?

Conceptual frameworks provide structure by showing relationships amongst different concepts. In this module, the conceptual framework for debriefing expertise and the GIFT framework are introduced. Faculty illustrate how they can be used to support your growth as a simulation educator and guide your development as a debriefer.

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Conceptual Frameworks for Debriefing

MODULE #1

Psychological safety is one of the foundational underpinnings of effective debriefings. Within this module, the antecedents to psychological safety will be explored, with a focus on how these can be managed before debriefing. Various strategies to establish, maintain, and restore psychological safety during debriefing will be reviewed to ensure facilitators have skills required to create an optimal debriefing environment.

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Psychological Safety in Debriefing

MODULE #2

The PEARLS blended method of debriefing describes the selective use of conversational strategies, thus allowing the facilitator to tailor debriefings to learning context and learner needs. This module highlights the benefits of PEARLS and discusses the merits of applying a debriefing framework. Debriefing tools are introduced as a resource to support novice facilitators during debriefings.

Feedback represents a critical element of debriefing conversations. In this module, faculty unpack the tension inherent in giving and receiving feedback, and provide advice on how to effectively give constructive feedback during a debriefing without alienating specific learners.

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Blended Method Debriefing

Feedback

MODULE #3

MODULE #4

Learner self-assessment is a conversational strategy designed to engage learners in active self-reflection. This highly versatile technique allows facilitators to identify perception mismatches, highlight positive behaviors, and explore specific aspects of performance. In this module, faculty discuss how learner self-assessment can be used to diversify your debriefing toolbox.

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Learner Self-Assessment

MODULE #5

Focused facilitation techniques can be used to identify the underlying rationale driving learner behaviours. This module describes the importance of uncovering rationale, exploring understanding, and closing performance gaps as key steps in focused facilitation. Faculty illustrate how circular questions and advocacy-inquiry can be used, in isolation and in combination, to execute the steps of focused facilitation.

In learner-centered debriefing, the responsibility for learning and balance of power rests with the learners. This module introduces specific strategies to shift to balance in debriefing from instructor to learner-centeredness. The importance of developing a learner-centered mindset is discussed, and faculty review the influence of culture on the learner-facilitator centeredness dynamic.

A faculty development strategy enables simulation programs to build a strong team of skilled facilitators. This modules reviews several key faculty development strategies, including: peer coaching, self and group reflection, and fellowship training. Debriefing assessment tools are introduced as a means to improve the quality of feedback provided in peer coaching conversations.

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Focused Facilitation

Learner Centered Debriefing

Faculty Development

MODULE #6

MODULE #7

MODULE #8

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The Debriefing Essentials course introduces core concepts that form the foundation for effective debriefing conversations. Faculty discuss conceptual frameworks that provide guidance for developing debriefing expertise. The role of psychological safety and blended method of debriefing is emphasized, along with the conversational strategies that can be used to engage and motivate learners. Faculty development strategies, such as peer coaching, self and group reflection, and fellowship training are highlighted, with tips on how to build an effective team of facilitators within a simulation program.

In this course, facilitators are provided with the advanced skills required to jumpstart debriefings.  Faculty review strategies to manage cognitive load during debriefing and highlight opportunities to enhance conversations while co-debriefing.  Difficult debriefing situations are discussed and resources are provided to support facilitators during these challenging conversations.  The use of storytelling as a conversational tool is explored, as is the role of other debriefing adjuncts such as video and objective data.  Finally, the influence of culture and implicit bias are highlighted, with expert faculty illustrating how debriefing conversations can be managed to optimize learning outcomes when these variables are at play.

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Cognitive load refers to the amount of information our working memory can process at any given time.  This module describes the various sources of cognitive load for debriefers and highlights different approaches to managing intrinsic, extraneous, and germane load during debriefing. Faculty discuss how optimizing germane load can improve debriefing skills over time.

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Cognitive Load in Debriefing

Module #1

Co-debriefing occurs when educators work together in a collaborative fashion to facilitate a debriefing.  Within this module, the benefits and challenges of co-debriefing are explored, with a focus on how to mitigate pitfalls. Proactive and reactive strategies to improve learning dynamics and outcomes during co-debriefing are discussed.  Faculty debate if interprofessional co-debriefers are a necessary prerequisite for effective interprofessional learning during debriefing.

Emotions may influence interpersonal dynamics during debriefing, making facilitation more challenging for debriefers. Expert faculty review the role of emotion in learning and debate the value of managing emotions during debriefing.  This module then outlines different ‘phenotypes’ of difficult debriefings and describes a toolbox of strategies to manage these situations.  A difficult debriefing tool is provided to help prepare debriefers for challenging debriefings.

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Co-Debriefing

Difficult Debriefing

Module #2

Module #3

Debriefing adjuncts are resources used by facilitators to enhance learning during debriefing conversations.  In this module, faculty illustrate how objective data and video review can be used to support feedback and engage learners.  The evidence supporting the use of debriefing scripts and tools is reviewed, and a template for a data-informed debriefing tool is provided to enable quick implementation in simulation programs.

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Debriefing Adjuncts

Module #4

Storytelling is the art of using words to share experiences.  Like art, effective storytelling requires skill, vision, and foresight.  This module describes the key components of an effective story and illustrates how and when stories can be effectively used to supplement debriefing conversations.  Faculty describe how a storytelling checklist can support the integration of personal stories into your toolbox of debriefing skills.

Culture is a set of attitudes, value and beliefs held by a group of people.  In debriefing, national culture influences learner expectations and dynamics.  This module illustrates how the concept of the ‘power distance index’ impacts debriefing dynamics in countries around the world. Expert faculty provide an approach to managing cultural factors in debriefing whilst preserving cultural prototypes.

Cognitive biases are decisional shortcuts based on prior experiences that exist within our subconscious.  These biases may influence our judgments or decisions, potentially resulting in unintentional consequences.  In this module, faculty explore how different cognitive biases may affect conversational dynamics, and introduce a set a cognitive debiasing techniques to mitigate the effects of personal biases on debriefing.

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Storytelling

Culture

Cognitive Bias

Module #5

Module #6

Module #7

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Course Intro_Advanced Debriefing.mp4

This course provides facilitators with the advanced skills required to jumpstart debriefings. Faculty review strategies to manage cognitive load during debriefing, and highlight opportunities to enhance conversations with co-debriefing. Difficult debriefing strategies are discussed and resources are provided to support facilitators during these challenging conversations. The use of storytelling as a conversational tool is explored, as is the role of other debriefing adjuncts such as video and objective data. Finally, the influence of culture and implicit bias are highlighted, with faculty illustrating how debriefing conversations can be managed to optimize learning outcomes when these variables are at play.

In this course, educators are provided with the requisite content and skills required to design, develop and implement simulation-based learning.  Faculty discuss how theory can inform simulation design, and then explore the steps of curriculum development required to effectively build a simulation-based educational program.  The role of realism is highlighted, and simulation scenario design process is broken down by illustrating key elements to deliver highly immersive clinical simulation scenarios.  Expert faculty review how team training and interprofessional education can be interwoven into simulation-based education.  Additional lessons illustrate the importance of psychological safety and the role of debriefing.  Finally, faculty discuss how to structure evaluations to gather data on simulation-based educational programs.

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Theories are established, tested explanations of principles that provide a description of some aspect of our world.  As it relates to simulation-based education, theories help to guide and inform our educational approaches.  In this module, we explore the role of Kolb’s learning theory, Cognitive load theory, and Social learning theory in shapes our approaches to healthcare simulation training.

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Simulation Theory

Curriculum development describes a planned and deliberate series of steps that serve to enhance the quality and impact of learning for students.  In this module, we highlight the series of steps required to effectively design a simulation-based curriculum for healthcare education.  Experts will describe the various instructional design features used to tailor educational sessions to learner needs.  An instructional design blueprint will map out how to best integrate different features to optimize learning outcomes from simulation-based curricula.

Simulation technology encompasses a wide range of different modalities or types of simulation equipment designed to deliver immersive experiences for healthcare learners.  This include task trainers, manikins, computer or screen-based simulation, virtual and augmented reality, or hybrid simulation.  This module explores the benefits and applications of these various simulation modalities.  A checklist provides guidance for educators to select the most appropriate simulation modalities for their educational program.

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Curriculum Development

Simulation Modalities

MODULE #2 

MODULE #3 

Realism describes the quality of representing a person or situation in a manner that is true to life.  This module reviews the various categories of realism in simulation-based education, highlighting when it is most appropriate to amplify realism to enhance learning outcomes.  A realism blueprint is provided, outlining the key applications of each type of realism to ensure educators match realism to address core learning needs.

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Realism

MODULE #4 - COMING SOON

Clinical simulation scenarios engage participants in a realistic, immersive, practice-based learning experiences.  Designing great scenarios is both an art and a science.  This module describes the key components of an effective simulation scenario, and illustrates tips to ensure the scenario is facilitated in an artful manner. Faculty describe how clinical prompts, adjuncts, and embedded participants can be used to enrich and enliven simulation scenarios.

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Scenario Design

Team training, or crisis resource management, refers to the set of principles encompassing the cognitive and interpersonal behaviors essential for optimal team performance.  Team-based simulation training offers a unique opportunity to address these core team behaviours.  This module reviews the main elements of crisis resource management, and highlights the importance of interprofessional education to address team training goals.  Learners are provided with a checklist illustrating how to integrate teamwork concepts into simulation scenarios.

Psychological safety refers to perception of safety within a situation or group, where participants feel comfortable speaking up without risk of embarrassment or punitive consequences.  In this module, faculty discuss the variables that contribute to the perception of psychological safety amongst learners during simulation-based education.  A psychological safety blueprint describes specific ways of building, maintaining and restoring psychological safety through the prebriefing, simulation event and debriefing.

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Team Training

Psychological Safety

MODULE #6 

Debriefing is a facilitated discussion amongst a group of individuals in which aspects of performance are explored to gain insights that improve future practice.  This module introduces blended method debriefing and highlights the role of three core conversational strategies during healthcare debriefings.  The 5W’s Debriefing checklist provides a thorough overview of key items to consider when planning your debriefings.  Debriefing experts share an observational checklist can be used to identify key performance issues and thoughtfully weave then into discussion during debriefing.  

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Debriefing Basics

Evaluation involves appraising data gathered through one or more instruments to determine the value or quality of something.  In simulation-based education, course evaluation provides valuable information for educators to determine their course addressed the needs of learners.  Assessment involves collecting data and providing information about individual or team performance, related to knowledge, skills and attitudes.  This module reviews the core tenants and evaluation and assessment, and offers guidance on how to incorporate evaluation and assessment into simulation-based educational programs.

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Assessment and Evaluation

MODULE #9 - COMING SOON

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In this course, educators are provided with the requisite content and skills required to design, develop and implement simulation-based learning. Faculty discuss how theory can inform simulation design, and then explore the steps of curriculum development required to effectively build a simulation-based educational program. The role of realism is highlighted, and simulation scenario design process is broken down by illustrating key elements to deliver highly immersive clinical simulation scenarios. Expert faculty review how team training and interprofessional education can be interwoven into simulation-based education. Additional lessons illustrate the importance of psychological safety and the role of debriefing. Finally, faculty discuss how to structure evaluations to gather data on simulation-based educational programs.

Simulation Essentials

The Research Foundations course introduces learners to the concepts underlying simulation research.  Faculty will review different types of simulation research and provide guidance in formulating a well-structured research question derived from accepted theoretical frameworks.  The course will then dig deeper into key aspects of the research process, such as interventional design, selection of outcome measures, and qualitative and qualitative methods.  Practical issues, such as implementation, obtaining grant and award funding, and dissemination are then addressed.  The overall structure of the course is designed to expose learners to all aspects of the research process, enabling a more systematic approach to current and future projects.

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Simulation based research embraces both research assessing the value of simulation, and research that uses simulation as a method to investigate other questions.  In this module, different study types and designs will be discussed, with particular focus on assisting learners in understanding the best approach to their particular question.  Differing means of research classification will also be presented to illustrate the overall structure of a program of research.

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Introduction to Simulation-based Research

MODULE #1 

The foundation for a successful research study is a sound research question that accords with current conceptual frameworks.  This module will begin by reviewing the key steps needed to formulate a relevant research question, including literature review approaches, as well as the optimal language to use with writing the question itself.  Finally, the role of theory in question creation will be discussed, followed by the presentation of several conceptual frameworks useful for question preparation.

Optimally designed interventions form the irreducible foundation of quantitative research studies in the field of simulation.  Basing these interventions on accepted theory and strong instructional design principles ensures the best possible chance of success.  In this module we review these instructional design principles and provide a framework for determining whether all necessary aspects of an intervention are present.  

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Planning Your Research Question

Designing Your Intervention

Determining the best outcome measures for a particular intervention can be a perplexing process.  While a wide range of easy-to-measure outcomes exist, these are often not robust enough to support a successful study.  In this module a variety of outcomes, ranging from checklists to measures of clinical effectiveness, are presented and evaluated.  Processes for creating and validating new outcome measures are also discussed.

In contrast to quantitative approaches, qualitative methods allow researchers to closely examine the thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs of their population of interest.  Relying primarily on textual data, qualitative approaches can also be used to generate new theories or approaches when none exist.  This module will introduce learners to key concepts in qualitative research methods, and provide an approach for deciding when to use these powerful tools.

While knowledge of appropriate design is crucial, research projects of any significant scope are difficult, if not impossible, to implement without adequate funding.  In this module, learners will be exposed to different types of grant and award funding opportunities, and learn effective approaches to grant preparation and submission from funded researchers.  Research team building will also be discussed.

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Measuring Outcomes

Qualitative Research

Getting Funded

MODULE #5 - COMING SOON

MODULE #6 - COMING SOON

The effective implementation of research can be as daunting as protocol preparation.  In this module, study execution will be discussed in detail and presented in a series of critical steps.  Concepts presented include pilot testing, data management and quality control, and recruitment, with the goal of providing a practical toolbox that can facilitate successful completion.

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Executing Your Study

Now that the study has been designed, implemented, and completed, it is necessary to share your work with others.  This module provides practical guidance on manuscript preparation, revision, submission, and peer review.  Each section of the standard scientific format (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) will be explored, and strategies are provided to assist in the writing process.  Approaches to addressing requested revisions during peer review will also be discussed.

While peer-reviewed journal articles remain the standard for scientific work, there has been tremendous growth in alternative means for disseminating content.  Strategies for submitting your work for conference presentation will first be discussed, along with practical tips for getting the most out of your attendance, and the value of networking and collaboration with like-minded researcher.  Finally, alternative approaches such as infographics and dissemination via social media will be explored.

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Getting Published

Disseminating Your Work

MODULE #8 - COMING SOON 

MODULE #9

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The Research Foundations course introduces learners to the concepts underlying simulation research. Faculty will review different types of simulation research and provide guidance in formulating a well-structured research question derived from accepted theoretical frameworks. The course will then dig deeper into key aspects of the research process, such as interventional design, selection of outcome measures, and qualitative and qualitative methods. Practical issues, such as implementation, obtaining grant and award funding, and dissemination are then addressed. The overall structure of the course is designed to expose learners to all aspects of the research process, enabling a more systematic approach to current and future projects.

Learn the skills needed to conduct relevant, methodologically sound, and publishable simulation-based research projects.

Research Foundations

Mastering debriefing is a lifelong journey that can take us to exciting places of discovery about how the ways we move, speak and feel impacts a learning conversation.  Within this course participants will identify, reflect and explore many of the microskills that master facilitators harness to co-create remarkable moments of human connection and growth.  By reflecting on how we use our body, our voice, our values and our power, learners will start the journey towards adaptive expertise in debriefing.

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Explore less discussed conversational strategies for use in the ‘inbetween spaces’ in a debrief: how to use previews, paraphrasing, naming the dynamic and above the table facilitation to shape a learning conversation and create graceful transitions between topics and participants.

Our movements deeply impact how we connect with others in a conversation.  In this module learners will explore tips on body language, hand gestures and eye contact and reflect on how these movements combine with our words to impact participants.

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Inbetween Moments

Body

Module 1

Module 2

Our voice is often controlled at a high level of automaticity, but the truth is your voice is a powerful debriefing instrument that can be adapted intentionally.  Explore paralinguistics, the features of great orators and the intentional use of silence.

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Voice

Module 3 - COMING SOON

Too often we limit our understanding of challenging conversations to the situations immediately in front of us, but our interactions are equally shaped by our beliefs, values and how we see ourselves as educators.  In this module we take pause and consider what are the underpinning philosophies, beliefs and drivers that we have as educators, and how they shape the ways we facilitate.

We often focus on crafting the perfect question, but so much of a debrief is about connecting people.  In this module we explore the benefits of rapport building outside of the debrief, establishing vulnerability, credibility and a sense of humility.  We also consider how to empower learners to own their reflective conversations, and monitoring for engagement from different professional streams.

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State of Mind: Looking Inwards

Building Connection

Module 4 - COMING SOON

Module 5 - COMING SOON

On your journey to debriefing mastery, consider our development from discovery to maturity and explore with debriefing experts what techniques they’ve adapted on their journey from routine to adaptive expertise.

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The Journey to Mastery

Module 6 - COMING SOON

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Facilitation Microskills Introduction.mp4

Mastering debriefing is a lifelong journey that can take us to exciting places of discovery about how the ways we move, speak and feel impacts a learning conversation. Within this course participants will identify, reflect and explore many of the microskills that master facilitators harness to co-create remarkable moments of human connection and growth. By reflecting on how we use our body, our voice, our values and our power, learners will start the journey towards adaptive expertise in debriefing.

Explore the unspoken techniques that create debriefing magic that are often admired but less frequently explored.

Facilitation Microskills

The Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist course offers a comprehensive curriculum covering vital aspects of healthcare simulation management. Participants will explore essential terminology, effective personnel management techniques, and learn how to select and maintain simulation equipment for optimal performance. Additionally, the course delves into best practices for asset management and the principles behind designing simulation centers to maximize educational impact. Topics such as integrating audiovisual and information technology, employing realistic moulage techniques, and pursuing ongoing professional development opportunities are also addressed. Through a modular learning approach, students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic and multifaceted role of a healthcare simulation operations specialist.

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Simulation Operations Terminology promotes essential terminology crucial for understanding and effectively utilizing simulation technology in healthcare settings. This includes terminology related to simulation equipment, procedures, and educational methodologies, enhancing team communication and ensuring realism in simulation scenarios. By gaining proficiency participants can improve the effectiveness of simulation operations and ultimately enhance learning outcomes for healthcare professionals.

Operations Management Personnel addresses staffing issues in simulation activities, whilst considering key capabilities such as technology proficiency, communication skills, quality assurance, risk management and leadership. This module explores hiring criteria for simulation specialists, emphasizing experience with simulation technology and risk mitigation strategies. Additionally, it highlights the importance of quality assurance processes and the ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary teams. 

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Simulation Operations Terminology

Operations Management: Personnel

In the Medical Simulation Equipment Selection module, participants will learn to strategically choose simulation equipment for healthcare training, considering factors such as user feedback, integration with curriculum goals, budgetary constraints, and needs assessments. By evaluating equipment based on established rules and gathering insights from user experiences, participants can make informed decisions that balance cost-effectiveness with the quality and suitability of simulation resources. Ultimately, this process enhances the effectiveness of medical education and training programs by ensuring that selected equipment aligns with learning objectives and meets the needs of healthcare professionals.

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Equipment Selection

Module #3 

Explore essential strategies for managing and maintaining simulation assets effectively with the Asset Management module. Participants will learn to establish asset management protocols, conduct regular maintenance checks, and implement procedures for equipment repair and replacement. By understanding the importance of asset lifecycle management and adhering to best practices, participants can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of simulation assets. Practical guidance on implementation will empower participants to seamlessly integrate these strategies into their programs.

The Simulation Center Design module provides comprehensive guidance on creating optimal healthcare simulation environments. Participants will delve into key considerations including space utilization, technology integration, ergonomics, safety regulations, workflow optimization, and accessibility.  By incorporating these elements and leveraging their expertise, participants can create simulation centers that maximize learning experiences for healthcare professionals.

The Audiovisual Technology and Management module is designed to introduce learners to the fundamentals of AV technology used in simulation center environments. Participants will gain essential knowledge about different types of cables, connectors, and cameras, as well as the various signals utilized in AV setups. By understanding these basics, learners will be better equipped to manage and operate sophisticated AV systems, enhancing the effectiveness and realism of simulations in medical and educational settings.

Asset Management

Simulation Center Design

Audiovisual Technology and Management

Module #4 

Module #5 - COMING SOON

Module #6 - COMING SOON

The Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist course offers a comprehensive curriculum covering vital aspects of healthcare simulation management. Participants will explore essential terminology, effective personnel management techniques, and learn how to select and maintain simulation equipment for optimal performance. Additionally, the course delves into best practices for asset management and the principles behind designing simulation centers to maximize educational impact. Topics such as integrating audiovisual and information technology, employing realistic moulage techniques, and pursuing ongoing professional development opportunities are also addressed. Through a modular learning approach, students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic and multifaceted role of a healthcare simulation operations specialist.

Enhance operational efficiency by mastering essential skills tailored to the needs of healthcare simulation operations specialists.

Debriefing Essentials

Advanced Debriefing

Simulation Essentials

Research Foundations

Facilitation Microskills

Simulation Operations

Patient Safety

Immersive Technology

Careers & Leadership

Clinical Debriefing