The effects of Simulation Based and Traditional Education on student's skill in Pelvic examination

Gynecologic exams are among the most difficult competencies that students must learn and therefore their competency is insufficient in this regard. This implied the need for applying the innovative training methods. In the recent two decades it is suggested that SBE is being used for teaching new skills. This study was conducted to determine and evaluate the effects of SBE and compare it with traditional training program on the midwifery students` skill in performing pelvic examination. In this randomized controlled trial, 56 midwifery students were randomly allocated in two educational programs about pelvic examinations. One group received the traditional education and the other SBE. All the students attended in a simulation-based assessment before and after the workshops. At the end of the exam, students also reported their perceived ability and their learning experience. Both programs promoted student's skill and confidence, but SBE significantly resulted in better performance (p=.001). Students in SBE rated their perceived ability higher in compare with the traditional group (p=.002). Students reported that SBE led to better learning and faster recall of learned issues. The results suggest that SBE is highly effective in enhancement of students’ skill and more confidence in pelvic examinations.