Exploring distance simulation educator technological competence: Use of a nominal group technique

Background: Recent events necessitated distance simulation educators (DSE) to learn and use technology without having established criteria for technological competence. Aim: We aimed to synthesize expert consensus to outline DSEs’ technological competence. Methods: We used a two-phase nominal group technique with ten experts with a priori 75% threshold to gain consensus. The group discussion transcript was then analyzed thematically in a qualitative descriptive manner. Results: Experts agreed on having DSEs’ structured education for technological and associated behavioral skills specific to the environment and based on applicable theories. They agreed on assessing and documenting educators’ growth and the team's preparedness to use technology, which was not dependent on the duration of experience in the field. Conclusion: This consensus study emphasized the need for DSEs to acquire competence through coursework and an evaluation of these competencies at the end of the training.