Simulation in contemporary medical education: Current practices and the way forward

Abstract

Integration of theoretical knowledge and practical skills is critical for effective medical education. Simulation is crucial in bridging the gap to prepare medical professionals for high-quality patient care in a safe environment. Simulation-based teaching has become the standard practice in medical education, especially in postgraduate courses like Anaesthesia. However, undergraduate medical education and other doctoral courses are still nascent. In line with the current National Medical Commission guidelines, it is imperative to complement the existing curriculum with a simulation-based approach as early as the first year of medical school. This review focuses on the current practices related to simulation-based medical education during undergraduate and postgraduate courses, particularly on anaesthesiology. We aim to discuss different types of simulation, the advantages of integration, students' perspectives, and the role of simulation in assessment and feedback. Finally, recommendations for future advancements of simulation in medical education and the way forward will be laid.

Keywords: Anaesthesiology; postgraduate medical education; simulation; undergraduate medical education.