EMPOWER® Debrief Model
A Framework for Debriefing in a Virtual Environment
Understanding that self reflection is essential and that a debriefing session is a best-practice standard, Sentinel U® created the EMPOWER® Debrief.
A comprehensive, 7-step process built on foundations of Adult Learning Theory and Constructivism, designed to boost the potential for learning, retention, and understanding, the EMPOWER® Debrief is an asynchronous, independent self-reflection on their performance.
The Steps to EMPOWER
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Explore:After first impressions from the simulation experience, learners Explore their initial reactions. |
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Misconceptions:Next, learners review the performance report to identify incorrect responses and Misconceptions. |
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Practice Standards:Learners are guided to research the Practice Standards and apply best practices to discover the correct answers to the incorrect decisions made in the simulation. |
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Opportunities:Learners are challenged to explore Opportunities to integrate these new concepts into practice. |
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Wins:Learners are led to recognize their Wins, appraising the strategies, decision-making, and judgment that resulted in correct decisions and outcomes. |
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Evaluate:Next, the learners Evaluate their attainment of the activity outcomes/competencies. |
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Reflect and Review:Lastly, the learners spend some time Reflecting on the development of a specific change that will be implemented in a current or future practice role. |
Debrief Model
Integral to simulation pedagogy and often described as an intentional conversation or guided self-reflection opportunity for learners, the debrief is the final step in the simulation process. While several debriefing frameworks exist, not all are suitable for virtual or asynchronous environments. Capturing immediate post-simulation or event thoughts is crucial for effective self-reflection, as highlighted by the INACSL Standards Committee. Recognizing this gap in the resources, we developed EMPOWER® Debrief Plus, offering learners a unique interactive individualized debriefing experience. Drawing on theoretical principles such as Constructivism and Knowles Adult Learning Theory, the design of EMPOWER® Debrief Plus enables learners to engage in a structured debrief with a virtual facilitator, guiding them through the steps of the EMPOWER® model and recording their entries for future reference or to prepare them for synchronous, group debrief sessions.