Novices - whether students or educators - spend much time concentrating on the rules of the skills they are acquiring (Benner, 1984). They practice applying the rules as they gain experience with more nuanced situations.
While the INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation℠ are, essentially, a set of comprehensive guidelines, the Novice Simulation Facilitator may feel challenged to know how to prioritize the sheer number of guidelines. As Expert Simulation Facilitators, we recognized the value in offering recommendations on where to focus those initial efforts.
For the Novice Simulation Facilitator, we recommend beginning with Professional Integrity. This Standard is foundational to simulation-based experiences, whether one is a participant, facilitator, or technician. INACSL (2016) emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining professional and personal self-awareness in simulation-based education. There is inherent vulnerability in simulation and the professional stakes may be high.
Additionally, Facilitation is key for a Novice Simulation Facilitator. This Standard includes important guidelines that address the facilitator's foundational knowledge of simulation pedagogy and delivering all phases of simulation so that participants meet intended learning outcomes. While aspects of this Standard require close mentorship, all aspects are critical for novices to consider and implement.
Finally, Debriefing. All simulation-based experiences include the debriefing element, and participant learning is greatly impacted by integrating experience and reflection (INACSL, 2016). Again, this Standard should be implemented by a novice with the guidance of an expert, but the guidelines are foundational for a Novice Simulation Facilitator.