Stanford Medicine Center for Immersive and Simulation-based Learning (CISL)

Stanford University School of Medicine and its affiliated hospitals are home to world pioneers of techniques, technologies and applications for Immersive and Simulation-based Learning (ISL).

To achieve a further integration in the application of simulation in their own system and to reap the maximum scholarly benefit offered by individual laboratories and investigators, Stanford University School of Medicine created the Center for Immersive and Simulation based Learning (CISL), led by the Associate Dean for Immersive and Simulation-based Learning, David M. Gaba, MD.

At CISL, their aim is to provide the coordination and integration of effort and link the activities of the diverse simulation facilities and experts within Stanford Medicine. CISL provides a single point of focus and expertise on the use of ISL techniques in health care. Additionally, CISL operates the Goodman Immersive Learning Center (ILC), a 28,000 square foot, state-of-the-art simulation facility that serves as the hub for immersive learning activities in the medical school. The ILC faculty and staff provide expertise and assistance in the development of simulation-based curricula for all levels of learners.

Mission:
CISL aims to improve patient safety, patient care, education, and research through innovations in immersive and simulation-based learning techniques and tools by embedding them throughout Stanford Medicine’s education and training programs.

Vision:
Their long-term vision is to embed ISL into the fabric of healthcare, not just for novices and not just an extra and rare event. Clinicians should cycle through ISL activities of many different sorts, sometimes as individuals and sometimes in teams or whole work units. Their vision is that if someone is a healthcare professional the only way the get to stop being in simulations is to either retire or die. That’s exactly the way it is in other industries – like aviation – where the public places its faith in highly trained professionals.

Goals:
• Education and Training of Students & Clinical Trainees
• Healthcare Systems Improvement
• Assessment/Testing
• Research
• Provide Immersive Learning to External Experienced Clinicians
• Community Outreach
• Leadership and Advocacy
• Faculty Development
• Faculty Development