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Licensed Unlicensed Requires Authentication Published by De Gruyter October 4, 2019

A Cognitive Load Theory Simulation Design to Assess and Manage Deteriorating Patients

  • Richard Say , Denis Visentin ORCID logo EMAIL logo , Vasiliki Betihavas and Susannah Minutillo

Abstract

Background

Cognitive load theory (CLT) uses an understanding of brain architecture for educational design, with implications for simulation. Since working memory is limited, minimising extraneous cognitive load improves learning of new tasks (intrinsic load) and use of existing knowledge (germane load). This study evaluates the effectiveness of low-fidelity simulation (LFS) utilising CLT principles in the assessment and management of the deteriorating patient (AMDP).

Method

CLT design principles informed the choice of LFS and simulation design. The self-rated ability of 13 undergraduate nurses across seven aspects of AMDP was measured in a pre-post design.

Results

Self-rated ability increased from 2.98 (SD = 0.19) to 4.47 (SD = 0.12) (p < 0.001), with improvements across all AMDP aspects.

Conclusion

This study indicates that CLT informed design has benefits for simulation. LFS may be preferred to high fidelity simulation for AMDP teaching and medical simulation for novice learners.

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Supplementary Material

The online version of this article offers supplementary material (https://doi.org/10.1515/ijnes-2019-0009).


Received: 2019-01-23
Revised: 2019-05-19
Accepted: 2019-06-05
Published Online: 2019-10-04

© 2019 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston

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