Perceptions of Undergraduate Nursing Students Towards Simulation-Based Learning: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aimed to assess the perception levels of undergraduate nursing students toward Simulation-Based Learning in Nursing and to examine the association between perception levels and demographic characteristics. A non-experimental, cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, involving 171 undergraduate nursing students from selected institutions in Vellore and Dharmapuri Districts of Tamil Nadu. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique, and data were collected using a structured self-report instrument based on the Simulation Perception Scale. The data analysis included descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for association at a 0.05 significance level. Results indicated that students demonstrated a favourable perception toward SBL, with 75.22% of participants reporting a positive view. The highest mean score was noted in the domain of Use and Effectiveness of Simulation (Mean % = 84.4), followed by Technological Integration (76.2%). Institutional Support scored moderately (68.0%), while Perceived Barriers scored the lowest (48.2%). No statistically significant association was found between perception levels and demographic variables such as age, gender, year of study, or prior exposure to simulation (p > 0.05). Overall, students exhibited a generally positive perception towards Simulation-Based Learning in Nursing. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating simulation into nursing education to enhance learning outcomes. Continued efforts are required to address perceived barriers and improve institutional support for effective implementation of simulation-based strategies in nursing education.