The PIER framework for healthcare simulation integration in undergraduate physiotherapy education

BACKGROUND: The need for healthcare curricula renewal to facilitate a continuum in education from classrooms to diverse healthcare settings is undeniable. Simulation has been recognized as an educational strategy to address healthcare education challenges, with limited reporting on the integration of simulation-based learning experiences in physiotherapy education. The study aimed to describe the finalisation of a framework for integration of healthcare simulation in an undergraduate physiotherapy program. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive research design was utilized. Five South African experts in the fields of healthcare simulation and/or physiotherapy education contributed to the finalization of the framework during a consensus meeting. Content analysis was employed and credibility was ensured through double coding. RESULTS: Structural coding yielded five themes- Planning, Implementation, Program Evaluation, Program Revision and Framework. The five themes consisted of fifteen categories, two sub-categories and 44 codes. The planning theme was most robust with seven categories. The Planning, Implementation, Evaluation, Revision (PIER) framework was developed and finalized by expert participants. following the consensus meeting. CONCLUSION: Needs analyses when planning and incorporating simulation is essential. Collaboration through resource and knowledge sharing is vital in developing a responsive curriculum integrating simulation. Furthermore, facilitator and student preparation are paramount in ensuring active engagement in simulated-based learning experiences. The interconnectedness of all framework elements and integration phases, as well as the implied importance of competent facilitators and prepared students is crucial and highlights careful consideration to be given to these aspects. The PIER framework is generic in nature and represents the continuous process of simulation integration for any healthcare program. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-022-03751-7.