Perceptions of simulation-assisted teaching among baccalaureate nursing students in Chinese context: Benefits, process and barriers.

AIM: To explore the subjective learning experiences of baccalaureate nursing students participating in simulation sessions in a Chinese nursing school.

METHOD: This was a qualitative descriptive study. We used semi-structured interviews to explore students' perception about simulation-assisted learning. Each interview was audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to identify the major themes or categories from the transcript and the field notes.

FINDINGS: Only 10 students were needed to achieve theoretical saturation, due to high group homogeneity. Three main themes which were found from the study included 1. Students' positive views of the new educational experience of simulation; 2. Factors currently making simulation less attractive to students; and 3. The teacher's role in insuring a positive learning experience.

CONCLUSION: Simulation-assisted teaching has been a positive experience for majority nursing students. Further efforts are needed in developing quality simulation-based course curriculum as well as planning and structuring its teaching process. The pedagogy approach requires close collaboration between faculty and students.