Abstract:
While the use of simulation is gaining popularity as an educational and training method, little is known about its utility in
supporting field research activities. To address this gap, the physical, psychological, and conceptual dimensions of a
full-scale simulated multi-bed rural nursing unit that became the ‘field’ for a rural nursing practice study is presented. The
advantages of using simulation in this manner are that it: 1) allows processes to unfold in a controlled but natural fashion;
2) supports the exploration of complex phenomena; 3) and provides comparable data sets for analysis. Items to consider
prior to using a simulation environment are also discussed.