Simulation for medical radiation students: a scoping review

Introduction: Simulation-based education is a significant aspect of teaching clinical skills in tertiary medical radiation science programs, allowing students to experience the clinical setting in a safe environment. This scoping review looks at the current literature in this field to identify the evidence surrounding simulation-based education for medical radiation students and identify gaps.

Methods: A search of PubMed, Scopus and Medline for studies from 2010 until 2021 was performed to capture existing literature in allied health and higher education. After a thorough screening process consistent with the framework established by Arksey and O'Malley,1 data extraction was performed on 31 articles.

Results: The interventions of the studies were categorised into either role play simulation, virtual simulation, simulation videos or online learning environments. Four of the five studies using performance-based outcomes and control groups reported significant improvement in favour of simulation-based education. Of the 17 studies relying on self-reported measures, 15 reported an increase in clinical competence after the simulation intervention.

Discussion/Conclusion: Simulation based education in its various forms has been proven to positively affect the education of medical radiation science students. Its versatility renders it capable of developing the communication and clinical skills of students, while assisting in their preparation for clinical placement. Student satisfaction remained high throughout the studies; however, it is the view of many that although simulation-based education is a valid and effective tool, it is complementary to and not a replacement for clinical placement.