Samuel G. Bowman ELAB Team Learning Exchange Trip Yields Valuable Insights for Healthcare Education and Simulation in Liberia
Nashville, Tennessee - August 21, 2023
In a recent learning exchange trip to Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Vanderbilt) , the Experiential Learning and Assessment Lab (ELAB) team at University of Liberia College of Health Sciences (ULCHS) gained transformative insights on integrating simulation curriculum in medical training. The trip, spanning from July 14 to July 29, 2023, facilitated an immersive experience that left a lasting impact on the team heading Liberia’s only high-fidelity simulation laboratory at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center.
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One of the key takeaways from the trip was the recognition of the significance of simulation-based training in preparing healthcare providers for non-medical emergencies.
The team - Isaac T. R. Dolo, Dr. Hawa Adoley Sonni Koon, and George Monibah - were surprised by the effectiveness of simulation experiences in simulating real-world crisis situations, such as a break-in or natural disaster. This novel approach showcases the versatility and efficacy of simulation methodologies beyond traditional medical scenarios.
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Amidst the valuable learning gains, the team highlighted Nashville city’s rich local culture as some of their favorite memories from the trip. Vibrant cultural exchange and engaging team end-of-work socials showcased the diversity and warmth of the Vanderbilt team.
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Dr. Hawa Adoley Sonii Koon, the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation (CTLI)Deputy Director for the ELAB, envisions herself taking on an enhanced leadership role, streamlining work organization, and fostering effective teamwork. Koon's newfound clarity in training simulation educators is expected to lead to improved training quality, ultimately benefiting facilitators and learners alike.
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Similarly, Isaac T R Dolo, CTLI Senior Coordinator for the ELAB, emphasized the importance of involving all team members, not just the core group, in decision-making processes. His insights suggest modifications in procurement processes and the development of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for the ELAB, providing a more faculty-focused approach to scenario development.
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George W. Monibah's experience as ELAB’s Simulation Technician revolved around completing the Advanced Care and Maintenance course for the high-fidelity patient manikins SimMan 3G and SimBaby at Laerdal Medical. This hands-on opportunity enhanced Monibah's skills and knowledge in working with these complex, high-tech pieces of equipment, contributing to his professional growth and empowering him to perform preventive maintenance on the manikins in-house at ELAB. Witnessing how simulation centers like Vanderbilt’s utilize their resources for broader safety training was an unexpected revelation for Monibah, highlighting the versatility of simulation-based approaches.
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The team's envisioned applications of these learnings include modifications in scenario development, simulation key indicators, scheduling, and the introduction of task trainers and standardized patient programs.
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The Samuel G. Bowman Experiential Learning and Assessment Laboratory team learning exchange trip at Vanderbilt University has underscored the transformative power of simulation-based training in healthcare education, leaving the team to deliver effective and comprehensive training experiences. The newfound knowledge and insights gained from the trip are poised to contribute to the advancement of medical education and patient care on a broader scale.
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This trip and the ELAB are funded by USAID through the BRIDGE-U: Applying Research for a Healthy Liberia project.
Written by: Jani Kollie
RADIO HOUR
Topic:- Launching of Center for Teaching, Learning & Innovation; a Public-Private Partnership to boost medical studies in the country. The center is intended for Research Utilizations and Training.
Topic: Transformation of University of Liberia College of Health Sciences by the Bridge-U:Liberia in Partnership with Vanderbilt University, Yale University & Other Partners.
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Date: July 31, 2022
Topic: Camp xSEL is a platform where High School Students looking to further their careers in Science and Medicine are selected through a competitive process to attend a 5-week Science Camp to prepare them for their medical career.
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Date:- August 28, 2022
Topic: Launch of Experiential Learning and Assessment Laboratory at the JFK Hospital, Monrovia.
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Date:- September 25, 2022
Topic: Yale University & Vanderbilt University Partners with the University of Liberia College of Health Sciences graduates High School Students interested in the sciences from the Camp xSEL 2022 Edition.
Date:- October 30, 2022
Topic: Year 2 Kickoff of the Bridge-U: Liberia Project with the Center for Teaching & Learning & Innovation.
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Date:- November 27, 2022
Topic: BRIDGE -U: Liberia had a 3 months health entrepreneurship training at the University of Liberia College of Health Sciences and had a one-day Innovation Activity Seminar for ULCHS Students.
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Date:- December 25, 2022
Topic: BRIDGE-U: Liberia HEARL Ideation Course graduates 25 aspiring entrepreneurs
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Date:- January 29, 2023
Topic: OSRS conducted a one-day Research Grant orientation workshop for faculty members of ULCHS. BRIDGE -U: Liberia MEL team had a three days capacity building training on REDCap.
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Date:- February 27, 2023
Topic: The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) had a successful validation on her Guideline for Health Professionals and the ELAB team conducted a two-day intensive simulation training at JFK for healthcare professionals.
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Date:- March 31, 2023
Topic: Camp xSEL begins preparation for its 2023 Science camp for high school students across Liberia. ULCHS conducted three-day Residents as Teachers and Leaders Training for doctors.
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Date:- June 25, 2023
Topic: Six aspiring health entrepreneurs were honored with financial awards and certificates for their exceptional performance in the USAID-funded BRIDGE-U: Applying Research for a Healthy Liberia project HEALR, Creation Course Pitch Fest.
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Date:- July 30, 2023