Authoring Simulations for High-Stakes Student Evaluation

Although simulation methods have primarily been used for teaching in nursing education, there is a growing interest in the use of simulation for student and program evaluations. Developing simulation scenarios for high-stakes evaluation differs from traditional teaching and learning scenario authorship in a number of ways. This manuscript describes the process used to write, pilot test, and revise scenarios used in the National League for Nursing High-Stakes Testing feasibility project. Observations and reported differences in scenario development and facilitation may provide insight to others regarding the best use of summative simulation scenarios.