Standardized Patients

Arizona State University•Phoenix, AZ

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Standardized Patients (SPs) at the John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical Engineering are key contributors to simulation-based medical education, working under the direction of the Senior Academic Coordinator to support high-quality, consistent, and human-centered learning experiences. SPs portray patients, family members, and other roles across teaching and assessment activities, including clinical skills training, physical exam training, communication, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs). SPs are trained, coached, and calibrated by the SP Educator to ensure accurate case portrayal, reliable learner assessment, and meaningful feedback aligned with competency-based medical education. In addition to traditional clinical encounters, SPs may participate in simulations involving point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), digital health tools, and AI-assisted clinical workflows, reflecting the school’s innovation-focused approach.

Requirements

Associate's degree and one (1) year of experience appropriate to the area of assignment/field; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Willingness to wear a hospital gown (over undergarments) when required
Comfort being observed live and/or recorded
Ability to perform repetitive scenarios with consistency

Nice To Haves

Experience as a standardized patient or in simulation-based education
Background in healthcare, education, theater, or communication
Experience providing structured feedback in educational settings
Comfort participating in repeated physical examinations (as appropriate and consented)
Ability to maintain objectivity and minimize bias in portrayal and evaluation

Responsibilities

Accurately portray assigned cases, including: Medical history, symptoms, and physical findings, Emotional tone, affect, and communication style
Participate in a range of simulation modalities, including: Clinical skills training and OSCEs, Interprofessional and team-based simulations, Technology-enhanced encounters (e.g., POCUS-guided exams, AI ambient listening, digital documentation workflows)
Perform roles in both highly standardized and adaptive scenarios while maintaining consistency across learners
Provide structured, behaviorally specific verbal and/or written feedback to learners as trained by the Senior Academic Coordinator
Emphasize patient-centered communication, professionalism, and clinical reasoning in feedback delivery
Accurately complete checklists and rating tools aligned with CBME frameworks and OSCE assessment standards
Apply calibration standards to ensure fairness, reliability, and validity in learner assessment
Contribute to a psychologically safe learning environment that supports reflection and growth
Participate in required SP training led by the Senior Academic Coordinator, including: Case portrayal accuracy and standardization, Feedback delivery as a teachable, core skill, Calibration for scoring and assessment consistency
Engage in ongoing coaching and performance improvement processes
Adapt to evolving simulation modalities, including integration of new technologies and educational innovations
Assist with simulation setup and reset (e.g., room preparation, equipment setup, supply restocking)
Follow protocols for use of simulation technologies (e.g., video capture, ultrasound devices, hybrid simulation tools)
Collaborate with leaders and simulation staff to ensure smooth execution of sessions
Maintain confidentiality of all student performance, case materials, and assessment content
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and punctuality
Engage respectfully with learners, faculty, and staff
Contribute to an educational environment that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Proficient in verbal and written communications with students, faculty, and staff