The Effect of Debriefing Following a Computer-Based Low-Fidelity Simulation on the Self-Efficacy of Health Professions Students: A Randomized Cross-Over Control Study

Authors

Matthew Mills, Springfield CollegeFollow
Enrico Gandolfi, Kent State UniversityFollow
Richard E. Ferdig, Kent State UniversityFollow
Kimberly Peer, Kent State UniversityFollow

Abstract

Purpose: Simulations have been increasingly used in health science education to supplement clinical experience. There is evidence of the benefits of high-fidelity simulation (HFS) with debriefing, but HFS is costly and time-intensive to administer. Low-fidelity simulation (LFS) has been proposed as an alternative that is easier to scale and more cost-effective; however, the evidence surrounding its impact on students is mixed, possibly because debriefing is frequently omitted in LFS. Methods: A randomized experimental mixed methods cross-over control study was performed to evaluate the impact of a structured debriefing session following an interactive computer-based low-fidelity simulation on the self-efficacy and anxiety of health profession students. 16 first-year graduate health profession students at a small New England College. Results: Students who received a structured debriefing session had significantly improved self-efficacy compared to those who did not. There was also a significant inverse relationship between state anxiety and generalized self-efficacy at baseline. This study found that there was a significant negative relationship between state anxiety and self-efficacy but no persistent changes in self-efficacy following a five-week wash-out period. Conclusion: This research may serve as guidance for healthcare educators looking to implement simulation within their curriculum, as it may give insights as to the advantages and disadvantages of LFS concerning the improvement of self-efficacy in students. This study should also influence how frequently educators choose to deploy LFS activities to maximize the outcomes concerning improvements in self-efficacy.

Recommended Citation

Mills M, Gandolfi E, Ferdig RE, Peer K. The Effect of Debriefing Following a Computer-Based Low-Fidelity Simulation on the Self-Efficacy of Health Professions Students: A Randomized Cross-Over Control Study. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Mar 03;24(1), Article 11.