Student perceptions of three online simulation-based learning experiences embedded within graduate stuttering coursework

Simulated patients have long been used across various healthcare professions. Research over the past 15 years supports the inclusion of simulation-based learning experiences to train graduate speech-language pathology students to work with various populations. This study explored students’ perceptions of three online simulation-based learning experiences within a graduate stuttering course, in which simulated patients portrayed either a caregiver of pre-school-age children who stutter or an adult who stutters. Two consecutive cohorts of graduate speech-language pathology students enrolled in a stuttering course were recruited to share their perceptions of their simulation-based learning experiences. All three simulations were developed by the instructor and the university’s Interprofessional Simulation Centre. The simulations were delivered online (via Zoom) to pairs of students. Students completed five surveys via REDCap, namely, a demographic survey, a survey following each simulation, and a post-experience survey. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric associations and comparisons for student perceptions were conducted. Twenty-eight students out of 88 eligible students (32% participation) completed the surveys. Survey responses indicated positive experiences for all three simulations and improved students’ comfortability when working with similar clients in the future. Simulation realism and student preparedness positively correlated with improved confidence. Findings support the value of online simulation-based learning experiences with standardised patients within graduate speech-language pathology courses that target working with caregivers of pre-school-aged who stutter and assessing and providing treatment to adults who stutter. Students reported feeling more comfortable about working with similar clients in the future.