Simulation-based education in classroom and clinical settings in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning
ISSN: 2042-3896
Article publication date: 5 May 2023
Issue publication date: 8 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this systematic review was to explore the benefits and challenges in the implementation of simulation-based education (SBE) in the classroom and clinical settings in sub-Saharan Africa. The objectives of this systematic review were to identify the benefits of utilising SBE in the classroom and clinical practice in sub-Saharan Africa and to assess the challenges in the implementation of SBE in the classroom and clinical practice in sub-Saharan Africa.
Design/methodology/approach
Five databases were searched for existing English literature (Medline, CINAHL and Science Direct), including grey literature on the subject. Out of 26 eligible studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa between 2014 and 2021, six studies that used mixed-methods design were included. Hawker et al.’s framework was used to assess the quality of the studies. Quantitative data were presented using descriptive and inferential statistics in the form of means and standard deviations while qualitative data were analysed and presented thematically.
Findings
Quantitative findings showed that participants rated SBE highly in terms of teaching (93.2%), learning (91.4%) and skill acquisition (88.6%). SBE improved the clinical skill competency from 30% at baseline to 75% at the end. On the other hand, qualitative findings yielded themes namely: improved confidence and competence; knowledge acquisition and critical thinking; motivation and supervision; independent, self-paced learning; simulation equipment and work schedules; and planning and delivery of simulation activity. Pedagogical skills, competence and confidence are some of the elements that determine the feasibility of implementing SBE in the classroom and clinical settings.
Practical implications
SBE could help to bridge the gap between theory and practice and improve the quality of care provided by nurses. Simulation-based training is effective in improving the clinical skills of midwives and increasing their confidence in providing care. However, SBE trainees require motivation and close supervision in classroom settings if simulation is to be successfully implemented in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, careful planning of scenarios, students briefing and reading of content prior to implementation facilitate effective simulation.
Originality/value
While there may be a lack of literature on the use of SBE for training nurses and midwives in the developing world, there is growing evidence that it can be an effective way to improve clinical skills and quality of care. However, there are also significant challenges to implementing simulation-based training in resource-limited settings, and more research is needed to understand how best to address these challenges. This study fills this gap in the literature.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This work was supported by the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development under Grant Number 70722.
Corrigendum: It has come to the attention of the publisher that the article: Msosa, A., Msiska, M., Mapulanga, P., Mtambo, J. and Mwalabu, G. (2023), “Simulation-based education in classroom and clinical settings in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review”, Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/HESWBL-02-2023-0043 was submitted by the authors with incorrect funding details.
The funding details have been corrected in the published paper from: “The researcher wishes to express gratitude to the University of Malawi for funding doctoral studies at Nottingham University, United Kingdom” to “This work was supported by the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development under Grant Number 70722.” The authors sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Citation
Msosa, A., Msiska, M., Mapulanga, P., Mtambo, J. and Mwalabu, G. (2023), "Simulation-based education in classroom and clinical settings in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review", Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, Vol. 13 No. 6, pp. 1126-1141. https://doi.org/10.1108/HESWBL-02-2023-0043
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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