Evaluating Student Confidence and Satisfaction with Simulated Learning Activities in a Family Nurse Practitioner Course

Simulation activities using standardized patients are seen as an effective teaching method while protecting real patients from harm. Little is known about the use of standardized patients in FNP simulation activities and student satisfaction and confidence with the simulation. This study focused on using a standardized instrument to evaluate the FNP students’ confidence and satisfaction with simulation involving standardized patients interacting with small groups of students. The study design was a post-simulation online survey that included the 13 item Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning instrument . Three additional narrative questions were included to expand on the existing survey data. 33 FNP students responded to the survey, with the majority indicating a high level of satisfaction and confidence with the simulation activity. Narrative comments reflected that the group learning experience with standardized patients was beneficial, non-threatening, and realistic learning experience. This study demonstrates using standardized patients in FNP simulation learning activities produced measureable outcomes of high student satisfaction and confidence levels along with supporting narrative responses.