Simulation Under Constraints: What We Can (and Cannot) Replace in Interprofessional Education

Session Description:

Simulation is widely recognized as a gold standard for teaching and assessing interprofessional education (IPE) competencies, yet it requires substantial logistical, financial, and faculty resources. When budget constraints made the continued use of a simulation center and standardized patients for “IPEA 502: Partnership in Interprofessional Teams” unsustainable, the McGill IPE team had to rethink its approach. In collaboration with the Office of Education Technology and E-Learning Collaboration for Health (Ed-TECH), we redesigned the course by adapting an existing simulation case into scripted, video-recorded scenarios featuring an actor with cerebral palsy. These videos were integrated into an in-person learning activity where students engaged in structured cycles of planning, observation, and debriefing, facilitated by trained clinicians and faculty members. Rather than simply offering a replacement for simulation, this talk will explore what elements of interprofessional learning remain essential when ideal simulation conditions are no longer feasible.

Speakers:

Joana Alvarenga, PT, MSc. candidate

Joana Alvarenga is the Course Director for Partnership in Interprofessional Teams within the Interprofessional Education Team in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at McGill University. She also serves as a Faculty Lecturer and clinical supervisor in the School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, in addition to her role as project manager with the McGill Dementia Education Program. A physical therapist with many years of experience, including 5 years of practice in Brazil, she has been working at the Jewish General Hospital for the past 17 years. She brings extensive clinical experience grounded in teamwork, collaboration, and person-centred care. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences and has a strong interest in interprofessional education and creating inclusive health environments.

Lauren Tittley, M.HSc., SLP (C)

Lauren Tittley is an Assistant Professor (Professional) and Coordinator of Clinical Education in the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders (SCSD) and a member of the executive committee of the Interprofessional Education Team in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at McGill University. As a speech-language pathologist, she has seen the value of true interprofessional teamwork firsthand and is passionate about educating future health professionals to practice in a more collaborative and effective manner.