In this episode

Simulation and Immersive Learning uses a variety of different educational tools to immerse learners by replicating real-life healthcare environments. This could involve training actors to play patients and family members or using high-tech manikins that function like real patients and allow students to perform tasks in real-time, such as citing an IVI drip or administering drugs. Swansea University also uses immersive walls that change to replicate the various healthcare environments such as a patient room, a home, or an operating theatre, allowing the faculty to train teams togeather and practice in a safe environment. The SUSIM team is also researching Virtual Reality projects as part of this programme.

At a time when demand on healthcare specialists has never been so high, Joanne discusses how Swansea University is innovating world-leading training to ensure healthcare professionals of the future provide safe, quality care to patients, families, and the community. 

About our expert

Joanne Davies is an Associate Professor and Director of Simulation Education for the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences. Jo started her position in July 2021 and designed and founded Swansea University's Simulation and Immersive Learning Centre (SUSIM) simulation facilities and programmes and Chairs the Interprofessional Simulation working group.

Jo directed the opening of the Simulation and Immersive Learning Centre on the Swansea University main campus in Sept 2023, this centre houses the largest installation of immersive wall technology globally. In March 2024 the SUSIM team opened additional immersive spaces in SU West Wales campus allowing the expansion of multi-modalities of simulation education, partnerships, engagement, business and innovation development. She also works collaboratively with the simulation Deans at HEIW as well as on national and international SBE projects.

Previously, Jo co-designed, directed and commissioned the Sidra Medicine Simulation Center and programmes in Doha, Qatar and led a team into operations, supporting the opening of a 450-bedded women and children’s hospital using simulation system testing. Jo co-founded the Qatar Simulation Consortium and MENA simulation programmes as well as studying with the CMS team at Harvard University to become a certified simulation healthcare educator.  Jo has also worked on simulation projects for Queensland Health in Australia as well as additional hospital and education projects in the Middle East and Africa.

Jo has been a registered midwife studying at Keele University since 1994 and has worked in clinical, education and senior leadership roles in the UK, Middle East, and Australia which helped spark her interest in using simulation and immersive learning techniques to support learners, teams and help create quality system improvement in healthcare. For further information please see Swansea University Simulation - SUSIM - Swansea University

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