Project Investigator(s): Stacey Skoretz, Assistant Professor, School of Audiology and Speech Sciences
Project Description
Health sciences curricula are moving toward competency-based assessments but how this is to be incorporated into speech-language pathology education has yet to be determined. High-fidelity patient simulation (HPS) has been utilized for medical training as it affords safe yet complex learning environments with minimal risks to both students and patients. Our plan is to develop and incorporate the first ever HPS learning modules for the speech-language pathology curriculum in Canada. Using a crossover design, our aim is to explore speech-language pathology students’ perceptions and clinical competency acquisition following three experiences: 1) didactic lecture, 2) clinical simulation (role-playing) and 3) HPS modules.
Research Question
What differences exist in student competency acquisition and perceptions following two different pedagogical approaches: traditional (didactic lecture based) and problem-based learning utilizing clinical simulation (role-playing and HPS)?
Impact on teaching and learning at UBC
We are the first speech-language pathology program in North America to have a dedicated HPS. Our goal is to establish the first and only swallowing simulation laboratory in Canada to attract both clinicians and researchers. The HPS is acquired and programming workshops have begun. We will be applying for future TLEF grant(s) to design and implement interprofessional HPS modules across UBC programs including dentistry, nursing, medicine, dietetics and occupational therapy. These would provide interprofessional learning opportunities for students across departments fostering early IP collaborations. Ultimately, the incorporation of HPS could provide a novel educational approach which could be adopted nationwide.