Simulation Based Learning: A Literature Review

Simulations are becoming more and more commonplace in education at every level, from elementary to post-secondary studies. This is largely due to their ability to tap into multiple aspects of how we learn, and solidify our skills thorough repetition. This literature review explores the current knowledge and utilization of simulation-based learning, and applies it to a simulation that can potentially be used in training optometry students a routine procedure called the cover test. A study of the literature pertaining to simulation-based learning was conducted. A cover test simulator was also constructed using various hardware components and open-source software manipulated specifically for use in the cover test simulator. The cover test simulator was designed to utilize aspects of deliberate practice. The student can use multiple repetitions to solidify the major concepts of the cover test. While the cover test simulator is useful when learning the procedures, there are many improvements that need to be made. It does not utilize all four areas of deliberate practice. It is not able to show all the possible deviations. Further development and study into the simulators effectiveness is required.