| Sumario: | The intention of this research pilot is to explore the prospect of integrating simulation-based learning (SBL) into the Bachelor of Social Work programme at Whitireia and WelTec (Whitireia). SBL uses scenarios that are developed to be authentic and reality based so that students have an opportunity to practise skills prior to encountering real-life situations. This research aims to investigate the efficacy of SBL in improving social work students' preparedness for real-world practice and developing core social work competencies. The study will involve students in the second year of the Bachelor of Social Work programme as they will have completed sufficient coursework to match the simulation's learning objectives. Two core competencies mandated by Aotearoa New Zealand's Social Workers Registration Board (n.d.)--working with diversity and promoting empowerment--and three paper learning outcomes will guide the simulation design. This study will examine how SBL increases social work students' confidence, observe their readiness for practice, and investigate the integration of theoretical knowledge through practical application. This study will contribute to the growing body of international research on simulation in social work education, with implications for broader curriculum development and field education strategies while also adding an Aotearoa context.
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