Faculty in Elon University’s Department of Nursing recently presented at the North Carolina statewide simulation conference, Beyond the Manikin, contributing to conversations on innovative approaches in simulation-based education.
Elon University’s Department of Nursing was recently represented at the North Carolina statewide simulation conference, “Beyond the Manikin,” where Jeanmarie Koonts, assistant professor of nursing; and Cyra Kussman, assistant teaching professor of nursing, presented innovative work focused on expanding the boundaries of simulation in healthcare education.
Their presentation, “Using Simulation to Bridge Faith and Health in a Non-Traditional Setting,” highlighted a unique, interdisciplinary approach to simulation design that integrates healthcare, ethics and religious studies. Developed as part of Koonts’ Bridging Faith and Health work, in collaboration with interdisciplinary partners Elon faculty members Brian Pennington and Helen Orr, and supported by Interfaith America, the project addresses a growing need to prepare future nurses to navigate complex patient situations where religious beliefs, patient autonomy and evidence-based practice intersect.
The session showcased a multi-module educational initiative and an accompanying simulation experience designed to foster interprofessional collaboration, communication, and clinical judgment in ethically challenging scenarios. By engaging learners in realistic, non-traditional simulation environments, the project aims to strengthen students’ ability to deliver patient-centered care while respecting diverse values and beliefs.
Conference participants responded enthusiastically to the presentation, particularly its emphasis on:
- Addressing moral distress in clinical practice
- Enhancing interprofessional education (IPE)
- Expanding simulation beyond traditional clinical settings
- Promoting culturally and spiritually sensitive care
This work is part of a broader, Interfaith America grant-funded initiative that will continue over the next two years, with plans to expand the simulation model and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in faith-health integration and simulation-based education.
The conference brought together educators and simulation specialists from across the state to explore emerging trends such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality and innovative teaching strategies. Elon’s contribution reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to excellence in nursing education, leadership in simulation and preparation of practice-ready graduates.