Putting the Horse Back in Front: Advancing Simulation Education With Implementation Science and Structured Research Processes.

ABSTRACT

This editorial explores the application of implementation science methodologies within simulation-based health professions education. It introduces two models, the adapted implementation model for simulation (AIM-SIM) and the implementation quality rubric for simulation (IQR-SIM), tailored to optimize educational simulation programs' development, implementation, and long-term sustainability in simulation contexts. These models are introduced against the backdrop of their development process, which notably lacked a formal needs assessment, highlighting a critical gap in their foundational preparation. To address this gap effectively, the editorial advocates for a scoping review as a strategic next step. The proposed scoping review will aim to comprehensively survey the landscape of existing literature, specifically probing the utilization of implementation science methodologies within simulation-based education. By identifying gaps and assessing the current state of research, the proposed scoping review will seek to substantiate the necessity for a simulation-specific model grounded in implementation science principles. The outcomes of the future scoping review are anticipated to validate the applicability and relevance of AIM-SIM and IQR-SIM in real-world educational settings. Moreover, it may provide insights crucial for refining these models to better meet the dynamic and nuanced needs of the field. By systematically scrutinizing the existing literature, the proposed scoping review may also elude to how effectively current methodologies address the complexities of simulation-based education. Ultimately, this process has the potential to inform future directions in research and practice, ensuring that simulation programs are not only effectively implemented but also sustained over time, thereby maximizing their impact on health professions education.