Comparison of Debriefing Methods after a Virtual Simulation: An Experiment

• Published in: Clinical simulation in nursing Vol. 19; pp. 1 - 7
• Main Authors: Verkuyl, Margaret, Atack, Lynda, McCulloch, Tara, Liu, Linda, Betts, Lorraine, Lapum, Jennifer L., Hughes, Michelle, Mastrilli, Paula, Romaniuk, Daria
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01.06.2018
• Subjects: nursing education; quantitative study; self-debrief; virtual debrief; virtual simulation; virtual simulation; nursing education; quantitative study; self-debrief; virtual debrief
• ISSN: 1876-1399; 1876-1402
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ecns.2018.03.002

Numerous studies support debriefing after an in-person simulation experience. However, there is little understanding about effective debriefing methods after a virtual simulation. An experimental study was conducted to examine various debriefing methods. Participants completed a virtual gaming simulation and were randomly assigned to one of three debriefing methods: in person, virtual, and self. Within groups, students made significant knowledge and self-efficacy gains, and all groups rated their debriefing experience highly. There were no significant differences in outcomes between groups. There is evidence to support alternative debriefing methods beyond the traditional in-person approach after a virtual gaming simulation. •Debriefing is considered an essential component of simulations.•Effective debriefing after a virtual gaming simulation will enhance the learning experience.•This experimental study tested three debriefing methods: in person, virtual, and self.•All groups had positive knowledge, self-efficacy, and debriefing experience outcomes.