Simulation Modalities for Undergraduate Nursing Education.

Simulation modalities are rapidly evolving in undergraduate nursing education. As health professions educators continue to respond to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on clinical education, simulation is well-positioned to provide innovative learning solutions. While there is an array of modalities available for implementation, the key is to choose the appropriate modality that is fit for the purpose of the task. Simulations are based on learning objectives and outcomes, and the modality utilized in the delivery of the undergraduate curriculum must ensure the learning objectives are met. Other important considerations when selecting a simulation modality include the level of the learner, the complexity of the modality, fidelity matched for the experience, the expertise of faculty, budget, and learning space considerations for both in-person and remote learning. Simulation modalities include task trainers, standardized patients (SPs), hybrid simulation, computer-based virtual simulation, virtual reality, and human patient simulators (high, medium, and low fidelity). Deliberate and precise simulation modality planning is, therefore, necessary to meet the learning needs of students and to ensure the simulated learning environment is consistent with the real-world healthcare environment in which students ultimately practice.