Using Mask Ed KRS Simulation

I attended training to become authorised to use this simulation technique in July this year. I was inspired to do so after 2 of my colleagues started to use this in their teaching and and I was able to see the benefits of this kind of simulation technique.

MASK-ED™ (KRS simulation) involves the use of silicone props, including masks, torsos, hands and feet in an innovative high fidelity simulation technique . The props are worn over the informed educator to mask them. The hidden educator then transforms into a character/ person with a history/story which is relevant to the learning experience. KRS stands for knowledgeable, realistic and spontaneous simulation.

It was with some trepidation that I entered the training room. Was I going to have the ability to transform myself into a character to be used in teaching and learning by donning a mask? Kerry is a great teacher and has a wonderful method of instruction.By the end of day 2 I had my Character Julie complete with a rich medical history, with a platform for education. My aim was to use this character in various scenarios in my L&D Unit.

Julie has had here first outing on a day entitled " Re-Thinking Ethics" and together with 2 confederates she address a group of over 80 professionals on feelings of vulnerability. It was well received and evaluation has been positive.

Since that day I have moved jobs but still intend on keeping "Julie" as a valuable teaching accomplice. She will be assisting in the delivery of training across all disciplines aimed at improving the patient experience. She will modify her reason to be there according to the group demographic.

With much thanks to Kerry ( Mask Ed) and to "Julie" I have discovered that I am a teacher who enjoys the storytelling strategy to teach. Always done it never realised it !

                                              "Julie" and " Bertie" during Mask Ed training

An article  entitled:  

Who is that masked educator? Deconstructing the teaching and learning processes of

an innovative humanistic simulation technique. ByMargaret McAllister, Kerry Reid Searl , Susan Davis ,published in Nurse Education Today.
The article goes into more of the teory of why Mask Ed actually works, including

the fact that at the end of simulations students are: a) thinking of patients as whole people with life stories, emotional drives, unique attributes; b) thinking of nursing,  and c) thinking of nursing objectives not as a task completion but as patient satisfaction and safety.