Objective: 
Increasingly, the Learning Resource Centre at Dalhousie University is being asked to provide learning experiences using simulation for international medical learners (students and graduates).  As our work in this area increases, so does our need to train Simulated Patients (SP’s) to provide helpful and appropriate communication feedback to individuals for whom English is a second language.  In response to this new challenge a tailored approach to SP training has developed. This poster will outline:

·How communication feedback with ESL learners differs from that given to Non-ESL learners

·How we choose SP’s to work with this particular group

·How to assist SP’s in identifying and articulating basic ESL difficulties to the learner

·How to prepare SP’s to respond sensitively to cultural differences.

·Written and verbal feedback given by students/graduates participants

·The materials, both developed and borrowed, to train SP’s in giving this customized feedback

Methods: 
A Sample of Materials Used in Training:

Gradstein R. Summer Institute for Medical English Manual, and Evaluation Rubric for Student Performance in Simulated Patient Interviews.  International Language Institute, Halifax, NS, and International Health Office, Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, NS; 2002/3

Role-play Scenarios use in Training

SP Guidelines when Giving Communication Feedback to ESL Learners in a Patient-Doctor Context/ How To Respond To and Respect Cultural Differences

Optional SP Reading:  Gropper, Rena C. Culture and the Clinical Encounter. Yarmouth, Maine; Intercultural Press; 1996

Conclusion: 
In order to gather medical information and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, it is of great importance that health practitioners for whom English is a second language have the opportunity to learn and practice.  Simulated patient experiences customized to this group’s language and communication needs can be a strong component of this learning. This poster will function as a resource for other SP Educators and hopefully stimulate a sharing of resources that are particular to this type of SP training.