High-tech manikins, artificial body parts, and puppets and masks for simulated learning were on display recently when CQUniversity Rockhampton hosted a Simulation User Network Symposium. The event attracted presenters from as far afield as Brisbane and Sydney.

Simulation is now recognised as a powerful educational tool, especially for health disciplines, and CQUniversity is a leader in its use.

Some of the Symposium participants L-R Jesse Spurr and Luke Wainwright from Redcliffe Hospital, Anthony Weber (CQUni), Assoc Prof Kerry Reid-Searl (CQUni) and Trish Luscombe representing Laerdal

The University is a major user of manikins to educate health students. It was also able to showcase the masking of educators and the use of educational puppets.

[The MASK-ED^TM (KRS simulation) package gives students an opportunity to interact with different patient types before they even reach the hospital ward, whereas the Pup-Ed^TM (KRS simulation) enables educators to engage, teach, play and communicate with learners.]

Associate Professor Kerry Reid-Searl from Nursing and Anthony Weber from Paramedic Science helped host the event in their capacity as co-chairs of CQUniversity's Simulation COP (Community of Practice).

Participants including local clinicians and academics were able to gain an overview of best practice across the field, while seeing the latest equipment available through international supplier Laerdal.

Laerdal funded the Symposium so it was free for conveners. Keynote speakers were also paid for by Laerdal. The international company provides patient simulators and health coaching devices as well as coursewave and educational content.