Innovative training for trauma-informed Care: Texas Tech University’s Symposium success
The impact of trauma is immense, which is why training on the critical components of navigating trauma is so important. Texas Tech University’s Health Sciences Center hosted a symposium on Trauma-Informed Child Abuse Care, recognizing the need for a solution where students could simulate these scenarios in a psychologically safe space for both the proctor and participant.
A cutting-edge solution for interprofessional training
Dr. Kiser, Curator of the Symposium, explained: “We needed a cutting-edge solution that could deliver impactful training to a variety of occupations within the community. We have a multitude of roles – from nurses to occupational therapists and beyond – how do you train and develop awareness and situational handling in an efficient way?”
Enhancing learning through AI simulations
“During the Fall Symposium on Interprofessional Education in Trauma-Informed Child Abuse Care at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Attensi’s AI simulation proved to be a game-changer. Their simulated child abuse case study provided participants with a highly immersive, hands-on learning experience that reinforced trauma-informed care principles in a practical, engaging way. The success of this approach enhanced collaboration among healthcare professionals and deepened understanding across disciplines. Given the tremendous value it added to our event, we highly recommend Attensi to other universities, colleges, and institutions looking to elevate their interprofessional education programs through innovative, technology-driven learning.”
Michelle Kiser, Ed.D.
Assistant Managing Director | Office of Interprofessional Education Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Supporting students in navigating complex subject matter
To support students in confronting and navigating this complex subject matter, Attensi curated a game-based training solution that presented students with the opportunity to simulate real-life scenarios. While the training could be utilized independently, Dr. Kiser opted to deploy the solution in a group setting.
“Since we had an interprofessional assembly of Health Sciences students, it was important to bring everyone’s perspective to the problem-solving experience.”
While not part of the Texas Tech Symposium, Attensi’s Helping Hand simulation is another example of how immersive tools can tackle challenging topics like trauma. It enables participants to build empathy and develop critical skills in a psychologically safe and supportive environment. Learn more about Helping Hand here.
Real-world value and emotional preparation
Although a simulation, the solution provided real-world value. Trauma is a deeply rooted emotion, and Dr. Kiser emphasized the importance of preparation: “We prepared the participants of the event with what might arise for them during the training, giving them the option to opt-out. That speaks to the impact of these simulations.”
The solution empowered the students’ learning – they didn’t take failing lightly and wanted to continue until successful completion.
“The AI activity was so great! Students really engaged with it. It gave them an idea of how they were performing, which validated the direction they wanted to go with the client.”
Empowering future training opportunities
Not only were the students empowered during the training, but they also look forward to opportunities for similar training solution adoption in the future.
“Loved the addition [of virtual simulation] … Please use this in the future!”
The value of this tool only compounds further. Through this style of immersive simulation, you have a system that helps both start and continue navigation through these difficult conversations, compounding the positive impact of the experience.
