Developing and testing transferability and feasibility of a model for educators using simulation-based learning — A European collaboration

Background: There is a pragmatic and often inconsistent approach of embedding simulation-based learning into nursing programmes. This paper details a European collaboration that designed a model for educator facilitation for educators utilizing simulation-based education.
Objectives: The objectives of the study were to develop a model to educate the educators who deliver simulation based learning and to test to which extent this model could be transferred to education providers in different national settings.
Methods: This model, its transferability and feasibility, was tested across three European countries. Educators from three Schools of Nursing participated in the study. Design-based Research was used as an overall methodology. Data were collected by the use of pre- and post-programme questionnaires and focus groups.
Results: The content of the NESTLED model is consistent with the needs of the participants. The testing also demonstrated that the model is transferable across-countries. Additionally, the participants' preferences regarding amount of time and pre-reading for the different sessions vary depending on the background and level of seniority of the individual participant.
Conclusion: The testing of the NESTLED model demonstrated that participants gained confidence and knowledge from undertaking the programme. Delivering the NESTLED model across-countries was found to be feasible, but flexibility is required in terms of logistical delivery of the programme.