Chapter 1: Evaluation Measures Around Simulation (Formative, Summative & High Stakes) 

This chapter will offer a concise overview of the evaluation aspect of simulation, but it won’t delve deeply into this area. Our intention is to provide faculty with a general understanding of the key aspects considered in simulation evaluation.

“Simulation-based experiences (SBEs) support evaluating the learner’s knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors demonstrated in the cognitive, psychomotor, and/or affective domains of learning” (McMahon, 2021, p. 1).

For each simulation, to promote valid and reliable results, a method of evaluation shall be determined before simulations, which might be (a) formative, (b) summative or (c) high-stakes evaluation.

Why do we have to consider evaluation in design?

Evaluations are essential in simulation-based experiences, as per the INACSL Standards. Evaluations can obtain valid results and design a strategy to inform participants on the methods of evaluation (formative, summative, and high-stakes). Evaluations ensure a process to obtain input from participants and peers and finally provide stakeholders with a device to evaluate process improvement.