Some strategies for effectively teaching your students with clinical training manikins include:

Before the session

l Establish clear learning objectives：What specific skills or knowledge would you like students to gain from the manikin session? Please ensure that the objectives are in line with the overall course and applicable to their future practice.

l Choose the appropriate manikins: Select manikins that accurately represent the scenarios you want to practice, taking into account age, gender, and medical conditions.

l Create a conducive learning environment: Set up the manikins and equipment in a realistic clinical setting. Allow students enough space to move around and work comfortably.

l Create engaging scenarios: Create realistic scenarios that will require students to apply their knowledge and skills. Consider incorporating varying degrees of difficulty, emotional components, and potential complications.

l Prepare yourself: Acquaint yourself with the manikins and their capabilities. Practice the scenarios ahead of time to ensure a smooth flow and address any potential issues.

During the session

l Begin with an introduction: Briefly explain the learning objectives and how the manikin session will help with overall learning.

l Provide clear instructions: Explain the scenario, procedures, and expectations in a clear and concise manner. Step by step, demonstrate techniques while emphasizing key points and potential pitfalls.

l Facilitate active learning: Encourage students to actively participate, ask questions, and make decisions in the scenario. Use open-ended questions and role-playing to help them understand.

l Observe and give feedback: Observe students as they practice, providing constructive feedback in a supportive and encouraging manner. Concentrate on specific behaviors and suggest improvements without being overly critical.

l Facilitate the debriefing: After each scenario, debrief with the group, discussing what went well and what could be improved, and relating the experience to theoretical knowledge. Encourage peer to peer feedback and reflection.

Additional tips

l Include a variety: Use a variety of manikins, scenarios, and activities to keep students interested and address different learning styles.

l Promote teamwork: Encourage collaboration and communication in scenarios that simulate real-world healthcare teams.

l Use technology: Some manikins include interactive features or can be combined with simulation software to improve realism and data analysis.

l Evaluate your teaching: Regularly review and adjust your teaching methods based on student feedback and your own observations.

Remember that manikins are just one tool in your teaching arsenal. Combine it with other teaching methods such as lectures, discussions, and clinical placements to give your students a well-rounded learning experience. By implementing these strategies and tailoring them to your specific teaching context and student needs, you can effectively use clinical training manikins to improve your students' learning and prepare them for future success in their chosen healthcare profession.