Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Learning in Nursing Education: SDG 4

Abstract

Simulation-based learning (SBL) has become an integral component of modern nursing education, offering a dynamic, experiential platform for students to develop clinical competencies, critical thinking, and communication skills in a controlled and safe environment. This paper presents a secondary qualitative analysis of literature published between 2018 and 2025 to examine the effectiveness of simulation across various learning domains—cognitive, psychomotor, and affective. Findings reveal that high-fidelity simulation, virtual reality modules, standardized patient interactions, and game-based learning approaches significantly enhance student preparedness, confidence, and knowledge retention. Simulation is shown to support the development of both technical proficiency and interpersonal attributes such as empathy and decision-making under pressure. The results also highlight the critical role of structured debriefing and faculty facilitation in reinforcing learning outcomes. While challenges such as high implementation costs, faculty training needs, and infrastructure disparities persist—especially in resource-limited settings—the overall evidence positions simulation-based education as a transformative and effective strategy in preparing nurses for increasingly complex healthcare systems. This study underscores the importance of integrating simulation into nursing curricula with pedagogical alignment, institutional support, and equitable access.