A guide to curriculum inquiry for brachytherapy simulation-based medical education

Abstract Purpose Brachytherapy is a required clinical competency within radiation oncology training but decreased utilization and volume have limited trainee exposure. Simulation-based medical education is an established educational tool that allows learners to engage in higher-order learning in a safe space and has unique application in brachytherapy instruction. Methods and Materials We reviewed best practices in curriculum development for simulation-based medical education in brachytherapy, current works in brachytherapy simulation, and identify areas for future development. Results The systematic curriculum inquiry method as it relates to brachytherapy was described using the “six-step approach” of problem identification and general needs assessment, targeted needs assessment, goals and objectives, educational strategies, implementation, and evaluation and feedback. Best practices in simulation identified several features of effective learning, including feedback, repetitive practice, and curriculum integration. A review of current simulation-based medical education brachytherapy publications revealed five manuscripts to date with a focus on feasibility across a variety of disease sites, including the prostate, cervical, breast, and head and neck. Potential areas of future development include curricular quality improvement, long-term outcomes, objectives that scale to the learner’s competencies, and expansion beyond psychomotor skills. Conclusions Brachytherapy is an essential modality in radiation oncology. Simulation-based medical education provides a powerful opportunity to improve brachytherapy training effectively.