Using Q-Methodology to Reveal Nurse Educators' Perspectives about Simulation Design

Background: Considering educators can hold varying beliefs toward teaching, it is to be expected a certain degree of subjectivity exists as educators make choices when designing and conducting simulation activities. The aim of this study was to discover nurse educators' perspectives (patterns of thought) about simulation design. Method: In a Q-methodological approach, 44 nurse educators rank ordered 60 opinion statements about simulation design into a quasi-normal distribution grid. Results: Factor analysis revealed nurse educators share an overriding Facilitate the Discovery perspective. Two secondary bipolar factors revealed educators hold opposing views about student role assignment, degree to provide student support, and when and if to stop a simulation. Conclusions: Results suggest that ongoing and sustained educational development along with time for nurse educators to clarify their perspective about simulation design is essential. Further educational research on the extent to let students struggle during simulation activities and the emotional preparation students need before simulation activities is crucial. Awareness of perspectives (individual and shared) about simulation design enhances instructional delivery and develops educators' skill in simulation pedagogy. (C) 2015 International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.