Debriefing—theory and techniques

Abstract

Abstract This chapter outlines some of the main theories underpinning debriefing and describes some currently used debriefing techniques to provide assistance to novice and experienced debriefers. There is still a paucity of rigorous research to support much of what occurs during the debriefing process and many promising areas for future research are outlined at the conclusion of this chapter. Given the need for rigorous research around debriefing, the material and example debriefer scripting presented here is the product of proven theories and research programmes from a variety of disciplines including psychology, education, aviation, healthcare, and organizational behaviour; the authors’ reflections after almost 20 years of involvement in clinically oriented simulation-based education and debriefing; and developing and conducting a ‘train-the-simulation instructor’ course with more than 3,000 educators over the past 12 years.