Virtual SIMsanity: Strategies for successful simulation for medical educators during the era of social distancing

Telesimulation has overcome challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing. It requires a videoconferencing platform, audiovisual equipment and an internet connection. While learner feedback is favourable, there are issues to be aware of and address. This letter discusses strategies for successful telesimulation (table 1). View this table: Table 1 Recommendations for conducting telesimulation Commercially available telecommunication platforms, such as Zoom, are available which most instructors and learners are familiar with and which most institutions own the licenses to so there are no additional out-of-pocket expenses.1 Audio quality should be maximised for the instructor and learner. Instructors may be able to use the microphones and speakers built in the computers. Lapel microphones or headsets with built-in microphones may improve the audio experience for learners. Learners should be advised to wear earbuds or headphones in order to better appreciate any low-pitched sounds, such as heart or lung sounds. There may be delays in audio causing interruption of the session. Slow and clear hand signals may be effective should this occur.2 The ‘chat’ function can also be helpful in bridging audio lag and to communicate with learners who may be having microphone issues or are tentative about speaking up.3 If the instructor is using more than one computer or phone, remember to mute both the microphones and speakers on any additional computers to eliminate disruptive …