“A Day in the Life”: A simulated experience

Abstract

An experiential learning activity titled, “A Day in the Life” was implemented with nineteen baccalaureate nursing students in order to achieve a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by persons living with Schizophrenia and a physical disability, such as a fracture in an upper extremity or a visual impairment. The role play simulation required that students interact with public transportation and community resources, while assuming the role of a person with  Schizophrenia and a physical disability. Using a qualitative descriptive methodology, reflective journals, aesthetic expressions, and post conference discussions about “A Day in the Life” were reviewed and analyzed by the authors. Two major themes were identified from the journal data: Changed Person, and Eye-Opening. Exemplars illustrating each theme are provided in the manuscript. Based on the results of this study, the authors believe that the role play simulation, “A Day in the Life” was effective in helping students to achieve a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by persons living with Schizophrenia and a physical disability. Further use of this experiential learning activity, with multi-method evaluation, along with short and long term follow-up is recommended.