Simulation as a key training method for inculcating public health leadership skills: a mixed methods study

Autor: Keren Dopelt, Itamar Shevach, Ofek Eliad Vardimon, Katarzyna Czabanowska, Jascha De Nooijer, Robert Otok, Lore Leighton, Osnat Bashkin, Mariusz Duplaga, Hagai Levine, Fiona MacLeod, Maureen Malowany, Leah Okenwa-Emegwa, Shira Zelber-Sagi, Nadav Davidovitch, Paul Barach
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2023
Předmět:
Zdroj: Frontiers in Public Health, Vol 11 (2023)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2296-2565
DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1202598
Popis: BackgroundSuccessful management of public health challenges requires developing and nurturing leadership competencies. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of training simulations to assess public health leadership and decision-making competencies during emergencies as an effective learning and training method.MethodsWe examined the effects of two simulation scenarios on public health school students in terms of their experience (compared to face-to-face learning) and new skills acquired for dealing with similar emergent situations in the future. A mixed-methods design included developing a validated and pre-tested questionnaire with open-and closed-ended questions that examined the simulation impact and the degree of student satisfaction with the conditions in which it was conducted. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with the students after going through the simulations. The questionnaire results were evaluated using descriptive analytics. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analyses. All data were collected during June 2022.ResultsThe questionnaire results indicate that students strengthened their interpersonal communication skills and learned about the importance of listening to the opinions of others before formulating their positions. Four themes emerged from 16 in-depth interviews, according to Kolb’s experimental learning cycle. Students emphasized the effectiveness of experiential learning versus traditional classroom learning. The simulation scenarios were felt to realistically convey critical issues regarding leadership, decision-making, and teamwork challenges. They effectively conveyed the importance of building a culture of conducting substantive and respectful discussions.ConclusionSimulation is a powerful pedagogical training tool for public health leadership competencies. Simulations were seen to be advantageous over face-to-face learning in imparting a range of leadership skills and hands-on practice. We recommend integrating simulations in all public health leadership training programs.
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals