Participants explore innovative simulation technologies, including high-fidelity manikins and simulation software, to enhance learning outcomes.
MEDICAL education is rapidly evolving alongside the growing complexity and demands of modern healthcare.
As the cornerstone of a competent healthcare system, it is imperative that training methods are relevant, immersive and effective, Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) said in a press statement.
It said simulation-based learning had emerged as a powerful tool in this regard, offering healthcare professionals a safe environment to hone their skills, practise clinical decision-making and prepare for real-life scenarios.
Participants (above) at the workshop titled ‘The Simulation Shift: Revolutionising Health Profession Education Through Simulation’ that explores innovative simulation technologies, including high-fidelity mannequins and simulation software, to enhance learning outcomes (left).
NUMed hosted its first such workshop, “The Simulation Shift: Revolutionising Health Profession Education Through Simulation”, in collaboration with Elevate Healthcare at its campus in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
“The success of simulation lies not only in the technology used but also in the competence of those who design and deliver it.
“With nearly 25% of medical training now being conducted through simulation, there is pressing need to equip educators with the right tools and knowledge to maximise its potential,” said workshop organising chairperson and NUMed lecturer Dr Sivashankari Ganesh.
Speakers at the event included International Medical University Malaysia (IMU) senior consultant anaesthesiologist Assoc Prof Dr Thiruselvi Subramaniam, Taylor’s University medical education director and senior lecturer and clinical skills coordinator Dr Narendiran Krishnasamy and Penang Hospital senior consultant emergency physician Assoc Prof Dr Teo Aik Howe.
The participants also heard from Elevate Healthcare and Indizium sales managers James Wong and Edwin Chia, as well as NUMed senior Assoc Prof Dr Bikramjit Pal and clinical affairs dean Prof Harinarayan Radhakrishna.
According to Dr Sivashankari, the workshop was structured around six core objectives and designed to ensure practical relevance.
“The aim was to build competencies in understanding simulation tools, developing effective scenarios, facilitating engaging sessions, assessing learner performance, conducting impactful debriefings and evaluating the overall effectiveness of training.”
Participants explored the use and integration of tools like high-fidelity mannequins and simulation software into their teaching methodologies.
Emphasis was placed on creating realistic scenarios that reflected current clinical practices as well as meeting specific educational goals, NUMed said.
Participants were also taught effective facilitation techniques and use of assessment tools.
“The workshop will significantly enhance teaching and training in healthcare.
“By learning how to design scenarios, deliver effective debriefs and conduct structured assessments, trainers can create more impactful learning experiences,” said Dr Sivashankari.
“Ultimately, this will improve learners’ critical thinking, confidence and readiness for real-life clinical practice, thereby raising the overall quality of healthcare education and patient care.”
