Assessment of a virtual disaster preparedness and response simulation compared to previous in-person iterations: successful translation of the Penndemic framework

ABSTRACT

Collaborative learning has documented benefits. Restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic prevented in-person collaborative experiences, therefore creating a pathway for online ones. An inter-university team previously created and published a novel framework that fosters collaborative learning for emergency/disaster preparedness and uses scenarios that attract student participation from a spectrum of disciplines. Here, we detail the implementation and evaluation of this framework in a virtual setting. Analysis of pre- and post-surveys from the virtual event revealed similar results to the previous in-person iterations. Results for both in-person and virtual events demonstrated that students had higher confidence and interest in emergency/disaster preparedness and interprofessional teamwork after participation. Implementation of this framework in a virtual setting can facilitate a positive student learning experience and inter-university collaboration.

KEYWORDS:

• Interprofessional
• synchronous delivery
• virtual collaborative learning

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

Funding for this project was used to supply custom face masks for the participants, facilitators and faculty but was not used for the educational delivery due to the virtual nature of the event.