Simulation Center Upgrade Strengthens Clinical Education

Seton Hall University, in collaboration with Hackensack Meridian Health, has completed a major technology upgrade at the Simulation Center on its Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) Campus, moving all recording and review systems to a secure cloud-based platform. The transition, finalized on December 17, 2025, improves reliability, security and accessibility for students and faculty while reducing maintenance needs. 

The project began in August with the installation of 103 new cameras in simulation suites, classrooms and clinical spaces. This first phase prepared the center for the second and most critical stage: replacing on-premises infrastructure with a scalable cloud solution. 

"The move to a cloud system was required to maintain data collection and recordings essential for learner assessment and patient safety standards," said Jennifer McCarthy, M.A.S., NRP, CHSE-A, director of clinical simulation and clinical associate professor in the School of Health and Medical Sciences.

The migration was completed on time with minimal disruption to teaching and learning, setting the stage for immediate benefits to students and faculty. Students will now experience faster playback, reliable capture of key learning moments and easier access to recorded simulations. These improvements strengthen interprofessional education and support hands-on learning that prepares students for real-world clinical practice. 

"The College of Nursing is moving to a competency-based education curriculum," explained Kathryn Sanok, M.S.N., RN, CPNP, CHSE, director of simulation in the College of Nursing. "The use of a cloud-based Sim Capture system will help faculty and students grow as clinicians by recognizing strengths and areas for improvement through self-reflection and faculty guidance." 

Faculty also gain significant advantages. With sessions recorded automatically, instructors no longer need to manage hardware or troubleshoot systems. This allows them to focus on mentoring and assessment, ensuring that technology supports rather than hinders the teaching process. 

"Moving to a cloud-based platform allows students and faculty to seamlessly access the information they need to make data-driven decisions," said Joseph D’Agostino, M.B.A., simulation program manager for Hackensack Meridian Health. "Quick access to encounter videos and evaluation data helps students focus on what matters most, while faculty use targeted analytics to guide more effective debrief sessions."

The success of this initiative reflects close collaboration among IT Operations, academic leadership, simulation teams and clinical partners. By modernizing infrastructure while respecting existing workflows, Seton Hall University and Hackensack Meridian Health have jointly positioned the Simulation Center for continued innovation in healthcare education. 

This upgrade complements other recent enhancements, including $1.14 million in federal funds for new equipment and technology in the Simulation Center. These investments ensure students gain authentic, high-quality experiences before entering clinical settings and reinforce the shared commitment of Seton Hall University and Hackensack Meridian Health to excellence in health sciences education.

Categories: Science and Technology