Introduction/Philosophy

The goal of the Experiential Learning Commons (ELC) is to provide safe learning experiences that promote a successful understanding of all aspects of health care.

The ELC faculty, staff, and administration are here to make the students’ clinical experience educational and enlightening and to serve in the best interest of the student. Simulations and case scenarios are designed to help the student develop problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills. The ELC will attempt to include all environmental factors to make the students’ learning experience realistic and authentic. For enhanced learning, all students are expected to come to the lab prepared. The faculty will provide students with pre briefing information, positive feedback and debriefing of their performance, while students will self-analyze their performance and use critical thinking during the reflection process.

The following guidelines maintain safety while using the ELC. It is expected that all involved in classrooms, clinical skills and simulation activities will adhere to these guidelines. The ELC Director will update the contents of this manual as needed. All students, staff and faculty will be advised of any revisions.

General information

The ELC is located adjacent to the DiSepio Institute for Rural Health and Wellness on the back side of Sullivan Hall. The ELC simulates hospital and community settings that are fully equipped to practice clinical skills in simulated inpatient, outpatient and community settings. The center has 11 high-fidelity simulators (SimMan 3G Plus, SimMan 3G, SimJunior, SimMan Essential, Nursing Anne Simulator, SimBaby, SimNewB. SimMom with placentas, Uteri Modules and a Birthing Baby, TERi Geriatric Patient Care Trainer, Arthur Pediatric Patient Simulator, and MATT auscultation simulator), 7 mid-level manikins (3 Nursing Annes, 2 Nursing Kellys, SimNewborn and Premature Anne) a variety of task and skill trainers and a wide assortment of medical equipment and supplies. The ELC is also equipped with recording capabilities and TV monitors and cameras that allow students to access simulations with their computers and view a wide range of media applications. 

The ELC schedule will be posted on this site on the Simulation Calendar page. Students needing extra practice in the ELC, may do so during “open lab” dates and at times recommended by the instructor. Any student wishing to make up days in the ELC must notify their instructor first, who will then contact the ELC Director.