The doctoral dissertation in the field of Computer Science will be examined at the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, Joensuu campus.
MSc Wayne J. Brown’s dissertation explores the pedagogical potential of hybrid simulation in healthcare education and presents a comprehensive theoretical framework for designing and implementing flexible, cost-effective, and high-fidelity training environments. Hybrid simulation, as defined in this research, integrates wearable and web-based technology, with a standardized patient – a human actor trained to replicate authentic clinical scenarios. The study addresses a notable gap in the literature: the absence of a structured approach to designing and implementing configurable simulations that can adapt to different medical scenarios across multiple disciplines.
A systematic literature review spanning six decades (1960–2019) confirms that hybrid simulation significantly enhances learners’ ability to practice and improve patient-caregiver interactions. Evidence suggests that students participating in these simulations experience heightened emotional and situational realism, fostering more profound empathy and improved clinical decision-making. While standardized patients have long been recognized for adding authenticity to training, their use alone limits the diversity and realism of a simulation scenario. Similarly, wearable technologies – ranging from silicone overlays to sensor-based feedback systems – introduce valuable realism and objective data but have typically been deployed in narrowly focused simulations.
This research identifies a key shortcoming in existing research: hybrid simulations are often scenario-specific and designed for isolated tasks or procedures, such as tracheostomy suctioning or patient transfer. This lack of flexibility restricts broader application and scalability within healthcare curricula. To address this, the author proposes a novel theoretical framework that enables educators to design configurable hybrid simulations to represent a variety of clinical contexts. The framework leverages the strengths of standardized patients and wearable technologies, while incorporating web-based tools to enhance the simulation's authenticity.
Two proof-of-concept implementations of the framework were conducted at a Canadian higher education institution using a small convenience sample. While not intended to yield statistically generalizable results, these exploratory studies demonstrate the feasibility of operationalizing the framework in real-world educational settings. Pre- and post-test assessments, combined with qualitative feedback from focus groups, provide promising evidence that the approach enhances learner confidence, supports achievement of learning outcomes, and offers a scalable solution for institutions seeking affordable yet effective simulation strategies.
This dissertation contributes to the field by laying the groundwork for future research and development of hybrid simulation models. It advocates for a shift from rigid, single-scenario designs toward dynamic, multi-scenario platforms that reflect the complexity of modern healthcare practice. By bridging technological innovation with pedagogical theory, the proposed framework positions hybrid simulation as a cornerstone for experiential learning in healthcare education.
Ultimately, this work underscores the importance of flexibility, realism, and cost-effectiveness in simulation-based training. It invites educators, researchers, and policymakers to reimagine simulation design – not as a static tool, but as an evolving ecosystem capable of preparing students for the unpredictable realities of clinical care.
The doctoral dissertation of Wayne J. Brown, MSc, entitled Hybrid Simulation in HealthCare Education Using Standardized Patients, Wearable and Web-Based Technologies: A Theoretical Framework will be examined at the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, Joensuu campus. The opponent will be Professor Emeritus Johannes C. Cronje, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and the custos will be Professor Matti Tedre, University of Eastern Finland. Language of the public defence is English.
For more information, please contact:
Wayne J. Brown, [email protected], tel. 170 550 002 86
