Validating the Calgary Simulation Curriculum: A Retrospective Review of Face and Content Validity of a Surgical Simulation Curriculum in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

ImportanceSimulation is a useful educational adjunct in surgical training. While a variety of simulation models exist in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS), no multi-session curriculum, encompassing a breadth of educational objectives, has been described or validated.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine the face and content validity of an OHNS simulation curriculum, including preparatory materials, session content, and method of content delivery (cadaveric and high-fidelity mannequin simulation).Study DesignMixed-methods validation study.SettingUniversity of Calgary (UofC) OHNS Residency Program.ParticipantsUofC OHNS residents enrolled in the program from 2022 to 2024.InterventionsRetrospective review of session content and feedback following completion of the Calgary Simulation Curriculum (CSC) by UofC OHNS resident, in addition to curriculum mapping of session objectives to OHNS training objectives, established by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).Main Outcome MeasuresFace validity was assessed through resident feedback scores on the overall educational value, teaching quality, and quality of preparatory materials of the CSC sessions. Content validity was assessed through the curriculum mapping process of session objectives to the RCPSC training objectives.ResultsCSC is comprised of 5 simulation sessions which include: management of pediatric airway foreign bodies, neck dissection, nasal fractures, sphenopalatine artery ligation, endoscopic sinus surgery, and rhinoplasty. Curricular mapping demonstrated strong face validity of the curriculum as all sessions aligned well with the RCPSC outline competencies. The curriculum also demonstrated overall strong content validity as evidenced by high perceived educational value, quality of teaching, as well as preparatory materials.ConclusionsThe CSC demonstrated both face and content validity and represents a valuable structured simulation-based educational tool for Canadian OHNS programs. This curriculum can be used as a complementary adjunct to surgical postgraduate training as a formative or summative educational tool for trainees.