The use of simulation as a teaching and learning approach to support practice learning.

Simulation is an approach to teaching and learning which is gaining a greater emphasis within nurse education. This has been fueled by the Nursing and Midwifery Council's (NMC) decision to identify a baseline standard for using simulation safely and its inclusion as a contributory part to practice learning [Nursing and Midwifery Council (2006a). This paper presents some of the advantages and issues for consideration in relation to its effectiveness as a teaching and learning method. Of particular concern is the limited empirical evidence to support its effect on clinical practice. Debate and further research is needed to help consolidate our knowledge and develop an evidence base for its continued use.