Simulation and Research
Simulation Overview
Simulation replicates real-life scenarios for rehearsal, reflection, and learning, tailored to the program's learning objectives. Our simulation activities range from computerized manikin-based scenarios, where residents engage in full clinical events, to task-specific training that focuses on individual skills.
In uniprofessional simulations, residents practice anesthesia management with faculty acting as team members. Interprofessional simulations, on the other hand, include learners from multiple disciplines, fostering essential non-technical skills such as teamwork, decision-making, leadership, and communication.
Simulation can occur in a dedicated off-site center or in-situ within the clinical environment. In-situ simulations allow for a comprehensive experience of the healthcare pathway, revealing latent safety threats that may not be apparent in routine practice.
Scheduled and Ad-Hoc Simulation Encounters
Throughout their postgraduate training, residents will have access to numerous scheduled simulation sessions in both structured and ad-hoc formats. Some simulations are integrated into the core curriculum, focusing on aspects of anesthesia training best suited to simulation-based learning. Others may be offered on an ad-hoc basis, providing timely training just before relevant clinical tasks, helping to identify and address gaps in technique.
Task Training
Simulation also includes task training, where specific technical skills are practiced using dedicated trainers, such as vascular access and airway management simulators. Each training site is equipped with various task trainers accessible through the site’s simulation lead. Residents can often arrange to use these trainers outside of scheduled hours, allowing for deliberate practice and mastery learning.
Local faculty utilize these trainers to facilitate learning, offering real-time feedback to enhance skill acquisition.
Additional Simulation Opportunities
Residents can engage in a variety of simulation modalities, including:
- Standardized patients
- Hybrid simulations
- Screen-based simulations
- Virtual interactive patients
- Case-based simulations
- Virtual and augmented reality
Specialized components may be available upon request. Interested residents are encouraged to reach out to the department lead for simulation for current opportunities.
Teaching and Mentorship
Residents are invited to participate as instructors for various learner groups. These recurring opportunities, along with special projects, allow residents to gain teaching experience. Residents interested in these roles should communicate their interest to their site coordinator, who can connect them with faculty in need of assistance. Those pursuing Master’s degrees in medical education may access advanced teaching opportunities, including curriculum and scenario design.
Research
Residents also have the chance to participate in simulation-based research, both as subjects (with consent) and as investigators. This research may explore the effectiveness of simulation as an educational tool or investigate healthcare components using simulation to test care pathways and clinical management changes.
Safe Learning Environment
Our simulation framework creates a safe learning environment where residents can learn from mistakes without fear of evaluation impacting their clinical performance. The exception to this is in assessments explicitly identified as summative evaluations, particularly as the Royal College transitions to a Competence by Design (CBD) framework. Residents will encounter standardized simulation-based milestones, overseen by the Canadian National Anesthesia Simulation Curriculum (CanNASC) committee.
Rich Educational Experience
Simulation is a cornerstone of medical education at all levels, and we are proud to offer diverse and enriching opportunities for residents throughout their training.
Research Opportunities
The Department of Anesthesia boasts a dynamic and productive research community, encompassing both laboratory and clinical investigations. Our faculty includes several internationally recognized researchers, and resident participation in research is highly encouraged. Engagement in scholarly activities is mandatory, providing residents with the chance to immerse themselves in the scientific inquiry.
Residents are expected to participate in all phases of research, from project design to data analysis, and ultimately, the presentation and publication of findings. Our Research Committee offers guidance and mentorship to ensure resident success.
Additionally, the University of Toronto provides exceptional opportunities for residents to pursue graduate degrees in various fields, including basic and clinical sciences (MSc and PhD), clinical epidemiology, medical education, and health administration. Committing to at least two years in a Master's or PhD program can fulfill the Royal College Clinician Investigator Program requirements. For more information, please visit our Anesthesia CIP site. Funding may also be available through the department for residents needing additional time to complete their degree.