Effect of Simulation Case Complexity on Engagement During Distance Debriefing - A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundLearner engagement in distance debriefing introduces challenges for educators. The influence of complexity in a simulation scenario on debriefing engagement is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the connection between scenario complexity and educator, social, and cognitive presence during distance debriefing, and the relationships with psychological safety and mental workload.MethodsWe investigated the influence of a more complex versus less complex simulation case on debriefing engagement of healthcare professionals using a latent regression Rasch model.ResultsThere was no statistical significance found in debriefing engagement of the 30 participants in the intervention (M = 109.66, SD = 16.17) versus 30 participating in the control (M = 112.42, SD = 15.30). No statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups in team psychological safety (M = 15.00; SD = 2.07 and M = 14.52 and SD = 1.73) or in mental workload (M = 72.28; SD = 19.52 and M= 73.13; SD = 19).ConclusionsOur findings indicate that having an experienced and skilled debriefer who can establish high levels of psychological safety can create an engaging debriefing conversation regardless of the simulation.FundingThis research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.