The Olson Centre for Health Simulation uses simulation to improve patient safety, quality of care, health care, and human services education.
Simulation education is a bridge between classroom learning and real-life experience. It places learners in a life-like environment where they can use the skills they’ve been learning in class in real time. It also provides the opportunity to critically reflect on their experience afterwards.
Simulation promotes skills acquisition, aids the development of clinical judgment, and teaches students about complex situations with life-like examples. It provides a safety net for learning, allowing students to acquire and develop critical-thinking and decision-making skills without exposing clients to unnecessary risk.
Experience the Olson Centre for Health Simulation
Our mission
The Olson Centre for Health Simulation supports workforce readiness through the integration of applied critical thinking, competencies, and knowledge to prepare front-line professionals for Alberta and beyond.
Our vision
The Olson Centre for Health Simulation and its partners remain at the leading edge of immersive education through a research-based, learner-centred environment.
Our values
Collaboration, inclusivity, innovation, professionalism, relevance
Our services
Our simulation services include:
- external consultations and custom building
- corporate training opportunities
- virtual reality and technology support
- Virtual Dementia Tour
The Olson Centre for Health Simulation provides simulation training and support services for programs within the Faculty of Health Studies and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
Our team
Kristen L. Ouellet, MDPA – Acting Manager
Throughout the past 20 years, Kristen has prepared adult learners with high quality simulation experiences—all of which include best practices. She and her team design learning experiences that support patient physical safety and psychological safety. Hands-on training which introduces best practices in patient safety and quality of care and teaches critical thinking and problem-solving in an environment that does not put the patient at risk.
This results in increased learner confidence and promotes problem solving, self-efficacy, and self-regulation upon entering the workforce.
Shaelyn Butchart, LPN – Simulation Educator
In the simulations Shaelyn teaches, she applies best practice standards into her scenario delivery. Through her collaborations with subject matter experts, she has ensured learning objectives remain clear and relevant.
Lucienne Soriano, BTR, CTRS – Simulation Educator
As a simulation educator, Lucienne develops the simulation curriculum while also facilitating simulation experiences. Through her collaborations with existing and future partners, she creates scenarios that are diverse, inclusive and relevant to current best practices.
Olson Centre for Health Simulation
Appointments can be made in person or by phone.