Simulation based education involves thinking, but also feeling. Emotions are pervasive and powerful, and they impact on performance and learning – in both healthcare simulation and of course in the real world. 

In this episode we talk with Vicki LeBlanc and Glenn Posner about the research on emotions, cognitive processes and learning, and their narrative overview on this topic just published in Advances in Simulation. 

We discussed the inadequacies of simplistic models like Russel’s circumflex model of emotion or the Yerkes Dodson curve that many simulation educators draw upon. We take a deeper dive into literature drawn from many contexts about how emotions impact attention, memory, motivation and learning.  

Using an example from Glenn’s practice, we consider how this applies to our simulation design, delivery and debriefing 

The article is full of references to those looking for more on the topic, and look out for more from this team! 

Happy listening! 

vb