STEPS-program

Overview

The Simulation Technology Educational Practices and Safety (STEPS) program is a multi-tiered educational ecosystem that is being developed to support emerging career pathways for Simulation Operations Specialists (Sim Ops). Hosted at Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, STEPS addresses the growing demand for skilled Sim Ops professionals in academic, clinical, and industry settings.

STEPS spans from early recruitment to professional development, offering a modular, stackable education pathway with multiple entry points. The cornerstone is a three-year, seven-course Minor in Simulation Operations embedded within the Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc).

What is special about STEPS minor? Currently, no formal academic pathways exist globally to train non-clinical Sim Ops personnel. STEPS minor addresses this gap with a competency-based framework. The framework supports a structured curriculum rooted in Competency-Based Education (CBE) and Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs).