Synergistic Integration of Concept Mapping and Cause and Effect Diagramming Into Simulated Experiences

The ability to demonstrate clinical judgment while applying critical and reflective thinking skills is mandatory for nurses (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 1998 and National League for Nursing, 2003). Yet research has demonstrated that new nursing graduates have difficulty transferring knowledge and skills to the clinical setting (Clarke and Aiken, 2003 and Del Bueno, 2005). Simulation provides faculty an innovative strategy to promote meaningful learning and facilitate the development of safe, effective, and competent graduates. This article discusses the integration of concept mapping and cause-and-effect diagramming as components of a simulated experience in an effort to facilitate the development of critical and reflective thinking.