Effectiveness of virtual patient simulation versus peer simulation in family planning training in midwifery students: a comparative educational intervention

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of two simulation types used for family planning consultation of midwifery students and to compare these methods. This study was conducted at a university in Kastamonu, Turkey, in 2020-2021. The sample of the study was 90 midwifery students. The family planning skill training and communication skills of the students were evaluated by watching the video recordings in the virtual patient simulation (VPS) and under the supervision of the instructor in the peer simulation (PS). In each instructional environment, the students' satisfactions were evaluated. Students' Knowledge scores of family planning increased after web-based training (38.3%; 67.9%) The mean scores for communication skills (VPS = 72.1; PS = 63.7) were found higher in VPS and family planning counseling skills (VPS = 66.5; PS = 77.6) were found in PS (p < .01). As the education environments were getting more like the reality, the students' not to used communication skills effectively and stress levels were found higher. VSP and PS are thought to be effective development of students' competency. The use of different simulation types can be integrated into midwifery education and contribute to the development of students' knowledge, skills, and communication levels.

Automated summary

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two simulation types in family planning consultation for midwifery students, and found that different instructional environments had varying effects on students' satisfaction, knowledge, and skills. Virtual patient simulation performed better in communication skills, while peer simulation performed better in family planning counseling skills.