Importance of simulation-based medical education and its application in diabetology

Introduction

The rapid development of new technologies in the medical industry is causing a growing demand for up-to-date methods of learning, based on gaining both theoretical and practical knowledge. Exposing patients to inexperienced healthcare practitioners, can be a cause of unnecessary medical errors. In 2021, 5,206 medical malpractice cases were handled by prosecutors in Poland, and in 2018–2020 it was, in order: 5,739, 5,905, and 5,464 cases [1]. Simulation-based learning (SBL) as one of the newer learning methods is increasingly being used in transforming medical education [2]. The SBL has been proven to be a superior learning method compared to both lecture-based learning and problem-based learning [3, 4]. Simulation “is the artificial representation of a complex real-world process with sufficient fidelity with the aim to facilitate learning through immersion, reflection, feedback, and practice minus the risks inherent in a similar real-life experience” [5]. Simulation can be used in many forms, including virtual patients [2], simulation via instant messaging [6], static and interactive manikin simulators, computer simulations, and serious games [7]. The versatility of SBL lies in the fact that it can be used at every level of medical training, from learning simple technical skills as a trainee, to whole procedure simulations for professionals, to help them reinforce teamwork and communication skills [8]. Simulation-based medical education has been widely used across disciplines in medicine [6], but in the further part of this review we will try to focus on its application in diabetology.

Aim of the study

The aim of the paper is to explain why simulation-based learning is the future of medical education. The other objective is to acquaint readers with the wide spectrum of SBL forms and applications, with particular reference to diabetology.

The efficacy of simulation as a training methodology

Before we delve into the topic of application of SBL in diabetology, we would like to explain why the interest in this method of learning in medical education is growing.

Benefits of simulation-based learning

Simulation has a wide range of uses in education of healthcare practitioners, and it has proven effective in transferring knowledge to both trainees and practicing health professionals [8]. SBL enables the presentation of scenarios that are common in healthcare as well as...


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