Capstone SimCast
Season 3 of the Capstone SimCast is LIVE!
It was a privilege and an honor to be joined by three veteran CCN faculty to discuss the pivotal role CCN had in implementing simulation for nursing schools in the state of Alabama.
The simulation center provides students with the opportunity to develop clinical judgement through high fidelity patient simulators. Students are provided simulation-based learning experiences as early as the first semester of upper division. Students advance from basic assessment of the adult patient in first semester courses to comprehensively applying their clinical judgement and knowledge in advanced fifth semester learning experiences. Simulation-based learning experiences expose students to real-life scenarios that they may not have the opportunity to observe in the clinical setting.
The Clinical Practice Laboratory (CPL) provides students with hands-on, active learning experiences in a simulated healthcare environment. Designed for deliberate practice, the CPL allows learners to apply knowledge, refine techniques, and build confidence through repeated practice and feedback. In addition to skill development, students participate in mock hospital simulations that replicate the flow and complexity of real patient care. These immersive experiences strengthen clinical judgment, communication, and teamwork, ensuring that students are well-prepared to deliver safe, competent care in actual clinical settings.
The Capstone College of Nursing integrates virtual reality (VR) into its curriculum as an innovative tool for advancing student learning and professional growth. Through immersive simulation experiences, VR allows students to engage in realistic clinical encounters in a safe, controlled environment. What sets our program apart is its emphasis on using VR to intentionally track the development of clinical judgment across the span of a student’s education. By capturing performance data and reflective decision-making at multiple points throughout the program, faculty are able to assess progress, identify areas for growth, and tailor support to individual learners. This evidence-based approach ensures that students not only gain exposure to diverse clinical scenarios, but also demonstrate measurable growth in clinical judgment competencies as they prepare for practice.
The Capstone College of Nursing is leading the way in leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance the development of therapeutic communication skills. Through AI-powered conversational tools, students engage in realistic patient interactions that adapt to their responses in real time. These experiences allow learners to practice active listening, empathy, and clinical reasoning in a safe environment while receiving immediate feedback. By integrating AI into patient communication training, we are equipping future nurses with the confidence and competence to navigate complex conversations and deliver compassionate, patient-centered care.
The Capstone College of Nursing’s Mass Casualty Simulation immerses students and community partners in a high-intensity, interprofessional learning experience. Designed to mirror the realities of large-scale emergencies, this exercise brings together nursing students, EMTs, fire and police departments, and other first responders. In this dynamic environment, participants practice rapid assessment, critical decision-making, and collaborative teamwork under pressure. The simulation not only strengthens clinical judgment and crisis management skills but also fosters respect and understanding across disciplines, preparing future healthcare providers to respond effectively and compassionately when disaster strikes.
Simulation Center Team
hscole@ua.edu
(205) 348-1491
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willi440@ua.edu
(205) 348-4865
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