Surgical simulation educational research.

Abstract

Surgical simulation is increasingly embedded in training programs. Diverse simulation modalities offer opportunities to support learning in wide-ranging competencies. Examples of approaches to classifying research have been applied to surgical simulation educational research. The article outlines these classifications and offers simulation examples. The surgical simulation community have published research priorities with most articles reflecting strong positivist notions of research. We believe this is a limited view and argue for research that seeks to deepen understanding of how simulation supports learning and can prepare trainees for the complexity of surgical practice. We acknowledge the role of professional communities in advancing simulation research and look to a future of interdisciplinary research. We propose emphasis on synthesizing the current body of knowledge, consulting with real patients for educational focus, fostering interprofessional simulation, clarifying terms used in simulation practice and ensuring high-quality simulation practice aligned with published frameworks.