Langara College's Nursing program uses a high-tech simulation lab with mannequins and virtual reality to give students hands-on experience and prepare them for real-world clinical settings. The lab allows students to practice skills safely and confidently.
Langara College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out in British Columbia for its strong emphasis on hands-on, real-world learning. At the heart of this experience is the state-of-the-art Nursing Simulation Centre (NSC), a high-tech facility where students gain essential clinical skills before stepping into real healthcare settings.
Simulation Educator Meghan Asher brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the role, building on five years of experience integrating simulation-based education at Langara.
A high-tech hub for practical learning.
The NSC bridges theory and practice through a variety of immersive learning tools. "We have a variety of simulation modalities," she explains. "From task trainers such as simple mannequins or body parts to practice hands-on skills, to the high-fidelity mannequins that blink, have a heartbeat, and breathe. Our pediatric mannequin has the highest functionality and also moves and makes sounds."
By replicating real-life clinical scenarios in a controlled environment, the NSC helps nursing students at Langara build confidence and competence before working with patients.
Embracing virtual reality in nursing education.
The NSC is also staying ahead of digital trends by incorporating virtual simulations. "The virtual simulations are becoming more popular," Asher says. "With more and more options available, from simple text that you read and click through to a choose-your own adventure style with videos to video-game style simulations."
These virtual environments offer students the flexibility to learn at their own pace, apply their knowledge in realistic scenarios from their own computers, and help them prepare for diverse and unpredictable clinical situations.
Real-life scenarios, real-time decisions.
Simulation training at Langara goes beyond practicing isolated skills. Students engage in complex clinical scenarios, like responding to a patient with sepsis. They learn to assess symptoms, communicate with healthcare teams, administer medication, and interpret lab results; all in a safe and supportive space.
Simulation offers some structure, and students will know what to expect and be prepared for the learning experience to apply their knowledge. This is a great addition to clinical learning as in the clinical environment, we cannot always predict what will happen or control what learning opportunities will be available.
- Meghan Asher, Simulation Educator
The future of simulation at Langara.
Langara continues to evolve its simulation capabilities. "We plan to incorporate electronic medical records into the simulation and lab. Our high-fidelity mannequins are updated and have additional applications that we are looking to expand on."
She is also passionate about the student-centered focus of simulation-based learning, emphasizing the creation of safer environments for students to experiment and explore their understanding of complex scenarios. This commitment to innovation ensures Langara's BSN students are prepared not only for today's healthcare systems, but for the future of nursing practice.
Langara's BSN program is designed to equip students with the skills, confidence, and experience needed for success in Canada's dynamic healthcare system. The combination of expert faculty, cutting-edge simulation technology, and a student-centered approach makes Langara one of the best places to study nursing in Vancouver.
Ready to take the next step towards a rewarding career in nursing?
Learn more about Langara College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and discover how our innovative Nursing Simulation Centre can help you develop the skills and confidence you need to succeed. Explore program details, admission requirements, and register to attend an upcoming information session.
Help us empower tomorrow's nurses.
By contributing to Langara's National Nursing Week campaign, you help ensure that more students have the opportunity to pursue nursing careers, equipped with the training, confidence, and compassion to make a difference. Your support helps maintain a steady pipeline of highly qualified nurses ready to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our communities.
Consider donating now to help empower the nurses of tomorrow, today.
