Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training Versus Traditional Lecturing for Outbreak Investigation Among Medical Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION

Training in outbreak investigation is essential for public health readiness. This study examines how simulation-based training improves medical students' outbreak investigation skills compared to conventional lecture techniques.

METHODS

We conducted a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) at Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Lahore Medical College over an eleven-month period. Participants were recruited from 4th-year MBBS students without any prior outbreak investigation training. Participants were randomized to control (lecture) (n = 45) and intervention (simulation) (n = 42) groups. Simulation-based training involving a Cholera outbreak scenario was compared to traditional lecture-based teaching. Pre and post-intervention assessments were used to measure knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Statistical analyses included t-tests and descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Simulation-based training resulted in a significantly greater improvement in knowledge and skills compared to the control group (p < 0.001). No statistically significant improvement in attitudes was observed (p = 0.068 within simulation group; p = 0.866 between groups).

DISCUSSION: Simulation-based training was associated with greater improvement in knowledge and skills than traditional lecture-based teaching, while no significant difference was observed in attitudes. Although both groups showed increases in scores, simulation-based training was associated with greater improvement in knowledge and skills related to outbreak investigation. The outcomes specify that in order to achieve complex learning requirements, medical education needs a variety of scholastic approaches.

CONCLUSION

Simulation-based training was associated with greater improvement in knowledge and skills compared to traditional teaching. To augment educational outcomes and qualify aspiring healthcare professionals for real-world challenges, preceptors should think about incorporating simulation-based training into their curriculum.