What critical skill should be developed through scenario-based learning?

Scenario-based learning is particularly effective for developing clinical judgment because it immerses learners in realistic, dynamic situations that mimic the challenges they will face in the field. This approach encourages critical thinking and decision-making, as learners must analyze complex information, assess patient needs, and apply their knowledge in a hands-on context.

In this learning environment, participants engage in problem-solving and must consider various factors, such as patient history, environmental conditions, and immediate resource availability. This experiential learning helps to enhance their ability to prioritize actions, make quick decisions, and evaluate outcomes in real-time, which are essential components of clinical judgment in emergency medical services (EMS).

While other skills like memory recall, standardized procedure adherence, and passive observation are important, they do not engage the learner in the same depth of critical thinking and situational analysis that scenario-based learning provides for developing clinical judgment.