Monthly Report

Competency: An analysis of the data from the survey was conducted to inform the development of a draft competency framework that integrates the three pillars of STEPS, as well as general competencies. The framework was presented to experts in the field during the SIMGhosts USA 2024 conference on August 8th. The presentation was followed by an interactive session, where the experts engaged in a rigorous review and provided feedback on both the wording and content of each competency. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected and synthesized to refine and finalize the competency framework.

Curriculum:  The STEPS Minor Curriculum Blueprint was been significantly updated to align with and reflect the finalized competency framework. Feedback from FHSc student focus groups and collaborations with experts like Dr. Greg Hardy and Kathy Johnston have helped refine the curriculum. Key changes include offering STEPS 101 as an open elective, shortening the minor to two years, and adjusting the application process. The proposed module map has been discussed with Simulation Canada and further refinements are being made to the module map before confirming the details and timeline of the module creation. 

Implementation: Four sets of 5-hour workshops have successfully been completed with faculty of health sciences students. A total of 21 students participated in focus groups to share their perceptions of the STEPS program. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students expressing strong interest in the program. They particularly appreciated the experiential learning through hands-on placements and the flexibility offered by micro-learning. Additionally, they suggested advertising STEPS and the healthcare simulation field to high school students to raise awareness and promote the program at the university level.

Logistics: A meeting with Simulation Canada took place to initiate discussions for the module creation of the asynchronous online course for the STEPS program. The structure of the course and detailed information on each module was discussed with suggestions and feedback to refine the modules. A meeting was held with members of the BHSc program committee and curriculum committee to discuss the process of submitting the Major Program Modification Form. The new course template for the STEPS 101 course will be submitted independently of the major program modification form and will be an elective course with final grades being considered as part of the requirements to enter the STEPS program. 

Competency:  The competency framework survey was distributed and completed by the end of May, with a total of 24 participants. After completing the survey, a thorough data analysis was conducted, resulting in two versions of the competency framework: one with lenient inclusion criteria and the other with stricter one. We will be reviewing both to determine the best fit for the program. The competency framework is currently in the process of being finalized.

Curriculum: Data is currently being analyzed from a SIM Expo 2023 Brainstorm Session to identify themes on how to construct the STEPS curriculum (e.g. delivery, structure, learning outcome). Based on the tentative competency framework, an exercise was conducted to categorize and plan out each online learning module for the STEPS curriculum. The tentative learning module structure will be formally assess for acceptability during a later phase of the research. 

Implementation: A scoping review is being conducted to determine how individuals in simulation-based health professions education define implementation, and to identify which implementation frameworks, if any, are currently being used in this field. Two workshops with BHSc students are being set up over the summer to teach students about the role of a simulation technician. Focus group interviews will be conducted with workshop attendees to gather their perceptions of STEPS as part of a needs assessment. 

Logistics: We are in the process of populating the major program modification form to launch the STEPS program by September 2026. The second advisory board meeting for the STEPS program has been scheduled for July 8, 2025, with preparations for the meeting underway.