Observer or Doer – Nursing Students’ Experiences of Different Roles in Simulation
Tervajärvi Lasse, Tervajärvi Sanna, Himanen Sari
Introduction: Although simulation has been much researched, there is less information on the role of
observers. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to find out, how healthcare students experience the
roles of observer and doer during the simulation.
Methods: Nursing students in the final stages of their studies participated in several different simulations
both as observers and doers. Following the simulation, they answered in a questionnaire, the result of
which were used to analyze their experiences in different roles.
Results: The students’ experience on their own learning is similar regardless of their role. As a doer,
the students bring out concrete doing whereas in the role of observer they highlight the observing of the
general view.
Conclusion: Simulation consisting of observers and doers is a worthy teaching method as it enables
greater amount of participant with good learning outcome. Acting in different roles gives the students
various perspectives during the learning process.
