Specialized Courses in Simulation

Abstract

In this chapter, the critical need for unique educator expertise and the development of responsive specialized courses will be examined. Simulation is increasingly recognized as an effective learning environment, and managing this learning experience requires educator expertise and specialized preparation in the form of faculty development or formal education. Increasing calls for health professions education reform include the need for evidence-based teaching techniques rather than relying on clinical expertise alone. Formal simulation-based specialized educator courses are emerging as multiday continuing education courses within existing simulation centers as well as graduate certificate and degree-granting programs in institutions of higher education. A sample of such programs is examined to define the current array of offerings at the continuing education, graduate certificate, and master’s degree levels. Future directions for such specialized courses are discussed in the context of validation of educator competencies, scholarship around course and program outcomes, and the continued prioritization of simulation-based education research as a funding imperative.