Utilization of Simulation Method for Clinical Teaching and Learning of Diploma Nursing Students in Tanzania: A Case of Mwanza Region

Abstract

Simulation is a teaching method that can replicate clinical practices in a safe environment and minimize the existing clinical challenges. Although endorsed in nursing curricular, very little emphasis has been paid, to make effective use of the method. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was carried which employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The purpose of the study was to investigate the utilization of simulation method for clinical teaching and learning of diploma nursing students in Mwanza region, Tanzania and determine factors' influencing its utilization. Since the number of subjects was considered relatively small, census was adopted to involve all 19 nurse tutors and 126 diploma student nurses, from private and government diploma nursing schools in Mwanza. Self-administered structured. questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklist were used to gather information from the tutors and students regarding utilization of simulation method for clinical teaching, and learning of students. All the data. collection instruments were pilot tested to ensure their quality in soliciting for the required data. Data analysis was done using the (SPSS) version 17.0, computer software and verbatim data. we.re organized according to their themes. Thereafter, results presented using. graphs, charts and frequency tables. Results from the study indicated that the majority of nurse tutors had substantial knowledge on simulation as a teaching method and had positive attitude to the method .. However, lack of skills. in using standardized _patients and importance of debriefing was less known or not understood by some tutors. Inadequate simulation training, simulation equipment, time and space in simulation laboratories were pointed out as being common factors influencing. effective utilization of simulation. Majority of students perceived simulation method as a tool to enhance confidence and improve their learning outcome. It was recommended that more effort should be put on improving. simulation method training in the country, to help nurse tutors use simulation method effectively, to transfer knowledge into practice .