I get a lot of questions about what platforms and programs we use to keep track of operational and curriculum data, forms, records, etc.. So here is a brief list:
Calendar and Scheduling
We use Google Calendar for scheduling. The program is free, it meets our needs, and can be linked to our website for public view.
E-Mail Client
Our organization uses Microsoft Outlook Exchange
Forms
From 2010-2017 we used Wufoo for our forms. In 2016, we began transferring our forms to Qualtrics. Now all of our external forms are generated from Qualtrics.
Internally, we have .PDF and .DOCX versions of forms that we rouinely use (for example: request for supplies, letterhead, etc…)
Many people in the “Sim World” use Google Docs so that the documents can be more collaborative. We’ve used it occasionally for brainstorming ideas or multiple-person editing; however, we haven’t seen a real need for that here at our center since everything we do is on a “shared” drive.
Student Sign-in
Up until 2017, we used hard copy, then the school was experimenting with a homegrown check in software. We are using that software today. the students just have to badge in to check in. There is also an manual function on it so learners that don’t have badges or forget their badge can get credit as well.
Curriculum Data
All curriculum tracking are done by a homegrown Microsoft Access database. Most of the operational tracking, in general, is done in the operations database. See below.
Student Surveys
We began using Qualtrics in 2016 to capture simulation course and session surveys. Currently, we use it for medical students, nursing students, and residents. We also use it for miscellaneous surveys for research and strategic planning.
Instructor Data Tracking and Evaluations
All instructor data tracking and evaluations are done by a homegrown Microsoft Access database. Most of the operational tracking, in general, is done in the operations database.
Operational Data
All operational data is tabulated on an Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. This is so I can keep track of trends throughout the year and for multiple years. The charting and pivot table functions are nice too. I have hear many centers/programs out there now use SmartSheet. It is an alternative to MS Excel and there are many others out there including a Google version.
The data is sequestered in the share drive, in a folder that only I can access. This is to ensure the integrity of the data.
Audio/Visual
We have a proprietary “homegrown” system built by Digital Networks Group that covers both the audio and visual side using hardware and software from Extron, AMX, Biamp, RevoLabs, and Cisco to name a few.
Simulation Session Capture
We have been using B-Line Medical since 2010.
There you have it. If you have any questions or want further information, please feel free to comment or contact us via E-mail.
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