Simulation-Based Learning to Foster Critical Dialogues and Enhance Cultural Competency with MSW Students

Simulation-based learning is a promising and innovative experiential learning strategy to better prepare social work students. To promote learning around cultural competency, faculty integrated simulations into three Master Social Work courses. Scenarios included cultural and diversity components with individuals and families representing nondominant identities. Students (N=68) completed surveys that assessed overall experiences, confidence with, and preparedness to engage with diverse clients. Students found simulations to be helpful for their learning and felt confident about engaging diverse clients. Second, five focus groups were held (N=36). Findings suggest simulations and debriefings prepared students to address diverse issues as the process was informative, reflective, and illustrated collaborative and essential engagements through critical discussions. Simulations are valuable for preparing students for culturally diverse scenariosl.