Chinese Health Students’ Perceptions of Simulation-based Interprofessional Learning

Abstract

© 2016 International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning Background The aims of this study were twofold: to explore Chinese health students’ perceptions of roles and responsibilities and to explore students’ understanding of interprofessional education. Methods A descriptive, qualitative design was used. An inductive approach was used to extract themes from students’ statements in a survey with open-ended questions. The National League for Nursing/Jeffries simulation framework and debriefing for meaningful learning were used in the design and implementation of the interprofessional simulation. Result Two themes were “similar perceptions and stereotypes” and “positive learning outcomes.” Conclusions Students reported an improved perception of roles and responsibilities. However, the common stereotypes held by students imply that a single simulation-based interprofessional education program was insufficient to facilitate students’ accurate role perceptions. Common stereotypes held by students inform the need for health curricula reform in China.