Simulation

Traditionally, simulation has been employed as an educational tool involving realism to allow learning in both concrete and abstract forms.  Simulation has the advantage of being able to link this learning to the 'real world' by immersing learners in realistic healthcare scenarios.

However it is important to acknowledge that there will always be a 'gap' between simulation and real life or 'work as imagined' verses 'work as done'.

Reflexive simulation attempts to eliminate this 'gap' by capturing 'work as done'. One technique used to capture 'work' is video reflexive ethnography. The footage forms the platform of sensemaking exercises that help create a shared understanding of work as it is truly done and identify potential areas of improvement.  Co-design workshops involving relevant stakeholders develop simulation events to test these potential improvements. Traditional debriefing of these events can help determine if the improvements are implemented into the workplace. The final step in reflexive simulation is the development and delivery of simulation events designed to educate and support staff