Fidelity in simulation-based training in diverse professions: a proposed taxonomy

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of fidelity within simulation-based training (SBT) across multiple professional fields. This paper: develops a taxonomy to classify tasks trained via SBT across diverse professional fields; develops a taxonomy to classify the elements of fidelity within SBT; and examines the relationship between fidelity in SBT and skills transfer to the operational environment (transfer effectiveness). It was found that increased fidelity in SBT does not always result in increased transfer effectiveness and that the relationship between transfer effectiveness and fidelity is nuanced.