The STEPS program is grounded in a carefully co-designed competency framework that defines the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors required for Simulation Operations Specialists (SOS). This framework ensures that non-clinical learners are prepared to support simulation in healthcare education and practice.
Refka Al-Bayati's MHSc work.
Al-Bayati, R. (2025). Bridging the gap: A competency framework for non-clinical simulation technicians (Master’s thesis, Ontario Tech University). Ontario Tech University Repository. https://ir.library.ontariotechu.ca/handle/10155/1926
Other Publications:
Al-Bayati R, Clarke KM, Micallef J, Rodgers CD, Dubrowski A. Empowering Non-healthcare Students as Simulation Assistants in the Digital Era of Simulation-Based Healthcare Education: Bridging the Gap. Cureus. 2023 Dec 6;15(12):e50083. doi: 10.7759/cureus.50083. PMID: 38186447; PMCID: PMC10770513.
Al-Bayati R, Micallef J, Clarke KM, Siraj S, Dubrowski A. Strategic Realignment in Healthcare Simulation Education: Shifting Focus From Assistants to Technician Training Pathways. Cureus. 2024 Apr 22;16(4):e58746. doi: 10.7759/cureus.58746. PMID: 38779260; PMCID: PMC11110476.
The STEPS Blueprint outlines how competencies are translated into a structured curriculum. It maps learning experiences across courses, simulations, and placements to ensure students develop both technical and interpersonal skills. The blueprint provides a transparent pathway from classroom to workplace readiness.
Krystina Clarke's doctoral work.
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Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) are at the heart of STEPS assessment. EPAs provide real-world benchmarks for performance, allowing students to demonstrate readiness for professional responsibilities in simulation operations. This framework ensures assessment is transparent, workplace-aligned, and competency-driven.
Anjali Jagannathan's doctoral work.
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The STEPS program is part of a broader educational pipeline. Starting with awareness activities for high school students, it connects learners to undergraduate training, professional certifications, and future graduate opportunities. This pipeline ensures a sustainable workforce for the growing field of healthcare simulation.
Julia Micallef's doctoral work.
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Publications:
Micallef J, Clarke KM, Al-Bayati R, Siraj S, Dubrowski A. Putting the Horse Back in Front: Advancing Simulation Education With Implementation Science and Structured Research Processes. Cureus. 2024 Aug 13;16(8):e66799. doi: 10.7759/cureus.66799. PMID: 39268321; PMCID: PMC11392508.
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