University of the District of Columbia Examines the Effect of Virtual Simulations on Clinical Decision Making

The 2021 Sentinel U® Nursing Simulation Research Grant (SUNSRG) afforded six organizations to conduct research on how simulation products can improve learning outcomes for nursing learners. As a 2021-22 SUNSRG grant recipient, the University of the District of Columbia – a Historically Black College and University – performed its own distinctive research over the course of about a year.

As a measure of critical thinking, 81% of students identify fact or assumption with virtual simulation, as opposed to only 31% without virtual simulation.

– University of the District of Columbia self-report finding

Critical Thinking Exam results in favor of virtual simulation in nurse education

With the support of Sentinel U’s in-kind grants, UDC conducted its own in-depth research study, asking a singular use-case question, assessing qualitative and quantitative data, and utilizing multiple instruments to measure a specific outcome. Sentinel U’s Vice President of Clinical Learning Resources, Laura Gonzalez, PhD, APRN, CNE, CHSE- A, ANEF, FAAN, personally mentored the university in producing its research, which will contribute to medical science and education.

2021-22 SUNSRG Findings: University of District of Columbia

Listen to Dr. Gonzalez convey the research findings of UDC, a recent grant recipient that used Sentinel U’s products to evaluate learning outcomes in their course work.

Immersive Virtual Simulations that Facilitate Learning Anytime and Anywhere

Prioritization of Care simulation screenshot

“Sentinel U’s Prioritization of Care® product improved clinical decision making and reasoning among Associate Degree Nursing students.”

– University of the District of Columbia research study findings

Sentinel U® Nursing Simulation Research Grant (SUNSRG)

Learn more about the Sentinel U® Nursing Simulation Research Grant (SUNSRG), view past winners, and apply for the next in-kind grant for virtual nursing simulations in 2023.

Learn More About SUNSRG