Construction and validation of the Scale of Perceived Gains from High-Fidelity Simulation (Escala de Ganhos Percebidos com a Simulação de Alta Fidelidade – EGPSA)

Abstract

Background: When used as a teaching strategy, high-fidelity simulation makes students feel more motivated, self-confident, interested and engaged in the learning process, preparing them for real-life situations. Objectives: To validate an instrument used to assess students’ perception of the gains from high-fidelity simulation practices. Methodology: This was a methodological research study, with the application of a 26-item scale to a convenience sample of 458 nursing students after their participation in simulated practices. Construct validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis with Varimax orthogonal rotation and confirmed through sample randomization and internal consistency analysis. Results: High item-total correlations were found in almost all items of the scale, which had an alpha value of.951. Reliability analysis of the five factors shows an internal consistency ranging from.699 to.930. Conclusion: The scale meets the validity requirements, and has significant potential to be used in research.