Debriefing for Simulation-Based Medical Education A Survey From the International Network of Simulation-Based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education

Context Current debriefing approaches and faculty development strategies for simulation educators differ around the world. We aim to describe the status of current debriefing practice and faculty development for simulation educators in this study. Methods We distributed a paper-based survey during 2 international conferences to obtain data from active International Network for Simulation-based Pediatric Innovation, Research and Education members. The survey was tested to ensure content validity and consisted of the following 3 constructs: demographic characteristics, current debriefing practice, and issues related to faculty development. Results One hundred nine of 114 participants (96%) completed the survey. Debriefing practice differs in terms of timing, duration, framework, and conversational framework. Most debriefings were less than 30 minutes (93/109, 85%), with many educators not using objective data during debriefing (47/109, 43%). Three- or 4-phase debriefing frameworks were used most commonly (66/109, 61%). Most participants have access to some faculty development opportunities (99/109, 91%). Barriers to faculty development are related to time and resource constraints (eg, freeing up facilitator's time: 75/109, 69%, competing priorities 64/109, 59%). Most participants indicated that their needs for debriefing to improve learning outcomes were met (95/109, 87%). The desired content for future faculty development opportunities varies between educators with different levels of expertise. Conclusions Approaches to debriefing among members of an international pediatric simulation network vary considerably. Although faculty development opportunities were available to most participants, future simulation programs should work on addressing barriers and optimizing faculty development plans to meet the needs of their educators.

Automated summary

This study investigates the current status of debriefing practice and faculty development for simulation educators in an international pediatric simulation network. The findings show variations in timing, duration, framework, and use of objective data in debriefing practice. While most participants have access to faculty development opportunities, barriers such as time and resource constraints still exist.