Abstract:

The Saskatchewan Polytechnic Prince Albert Simulation lab deploys the almost there or almost real lab exercises to simulate reality and enhance the learning experiences of the health care students. In response to the ever-increasing utilization of theoretical teaching, simulations, and on-line teaching there is a decreased availability of almost real situational learning. It is vital that care providers develop an understanding of and appreciation for the daily reality of their clientele.

The author will present/discuss the intrinsic value of participating in interactive, hands-on, and sensory titillating experiences. Attendees will learn how life-like almost real teaching tools and activities enhance student learning and retention of skills. As well conference participants will discover how to produce assessment tools. Participants will receive a printed copy of the updated, revised 'almost there: recipes for success' book. This oral session will introduce our understanding of almost there situational learning. We will present how to prepare almost there situational learning activities. In short, we will discuss how to make the simulation labs come alive. For example we will present/discuss how to administer intra-dermal and/or intramuscular injections using laboratory props; we will discuss/describe laboratory props to help teach surgical, wound technique competencies. We will provide assessment forms, protocols and ideas of evaluating these skills. Discussions, question and answers, as well as, the merits of this approach will be a substantial part of this presentation. The utility of this tool extends beyond the classroom including continuing education for facility staff.

Our "cook book" is deemed applied research at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Applied Research office. Images of post-partum lochia illustrated in the 'almost there: recipes for success' 2016 edition were reproduced in the Sorrentino, S., Remmert, L., & Wilk, M. (2016). Mosby's Canadian Textbook for the Support Worker, 4th Edition.

Keywords:

Real life, reality, simulation lab props, applied research.