Case Study: Sheffield Hallam University achieves placement-ready clinicians and 74% reduction in staffing and estate costs with Oxford Medical Simulation

Creating Placement-ready Clinicians With Virtual Simulation at Sheffield Hallam University

Sheffield Hallam University, a leading UK provider of nursing and midwifery education, faced major disruption to clinical placements during the COVID-19 pandemic that threatened third-year students’ ability to gain required hands-on experience. The university partnered with Oxford Medical Simulation (OMS) to deliver high-fidelity virtual simulation as an alternative means of experiential learning and to replace lost placement hours.

Oxford Medical Simulation provided on-screen immersive scenarios and group facilitation (via Microsoft Teams) that were rolled out from third year to all years, plus open simulation labs for repeat practice. The solution enabled nearly 2,000 sessions, allowed sessions of about 35 learners versus ~18 for face-to-face simulation, and delivered a 74% reduction in staffing time and estate costs; learners reported improved confidence, clinical decision-making, and the ability to meet placement hour requirements.

Sheffield Hallam University

Leisa Anderton

Lecturer