Learning a new procedure online, through a simulation, allows many students to work at their own pace—one of the chief benefits of online instruction, since the students don’t all have to be in the exact same place at the same time. Additionally, students have the benefit of unlimited attempts on a virtual patient, which helps prevent performance anxiety and allows each student to customize their practice in a low-risk environment that allows them to achieve mastery.

While simulations were already in use before COVID-19 hit the US in the Spring of 2020, the closing of schools in March 2020 increased the pressure to provide alternatives to traditional clinical coursework. Students who were already enrolled in a healthcare course of study needed clinical hours to complete their programs, but these became difficult to secure during the pandemic. The jobs were plentiful—but finishing a degree or certificate program became nearly impossible. Now with SIMTICS online job simulations, students can practice what they learn at home at their own pace and be ready for the job market!