Member of the Month: James Colquitt
The Member of the Month feature periodically highlights our amazing membership and the things they’re doing. If you know someone who should be featured as the Member of the Month, email our Communications Minion and we’ll make it happen! November’s Member of the Month is Dr. James Colquitt, PhD, RRT-ACCS, CHSE, CHSOS. James is the Associate Professor of Simulation and Technology and Assistant Dean for Simulation Technology and Competency Based Education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Monroe, LA.
What kind of work do you do?
I work in a medical school in the area of medical simulation, training medical students and physicians to perform various procedures and to work as a team in crisis situations. We run simulations using both high and low fidelity devices in the setting designed to immerse the learner into the experience. This includes mock hospital rooms, Emergency Room bays, and delivery rooms. It's always exciting when we introduce new procedures and experiences to new medical students. They quickly forget that they are in a simulated area and truly believe they are managing their own patient. I especially enjoy facilitating the debriefs after simulations, where we reflect on team dynamics and clinical decision-making. It's rewarding to see the "lightbulb moments" when learners gain new insights.
Why are you a NASAGA member?
I'm a NASAGA member because I enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life who use simulations and games creatively. At my first NASAGA conference, I was amazed by the passion and innovations showcased. From virtual worlds to tabletop exercises, people were using play and storytelling in ways I never imagined. Now I look forward to the conferences each year to recharge my creativity, meet kindred spirits, and gather new ideas to try. The diverse perspectives at NASAGA always give me fresh inspiration.
What’s your favorite NASAGA memory?
My favorite NASAGA memory was volunteering as "tech guru" during the first virtual conference. As attendees logged in, I got to see simulation experts in their home offices and living rooms around the world. Some had silly virtual backgrounds, and everyone was extremely patient as we worked out the inevitable tech glitches. It was hectic managing the concurrent sessions, but the informal chats during the social hours were the best. There was such camaraderie as we shared stories and tips for running online simulations. I'll never forget that feeling of global community.
NASAGA’s theme for the 2023 Conference was “Space at the Table.” What do you do in your professional practice to integrate diverse points of view?
I'm always looking for ways to integrate more diversity of thought and lived experience. For example, when I develop new simulations, I gather input from staff across departments to consider different perspectives. I also have learners share their cultures and communities so we can incorporate relevant scenarios. During debriefs, I mediate respectful dialogue and challenge assumptions to make space for more voices. There's always more progress to make, but seeing people gain empathy and work in partnership makes all the effort worthwhile. NASAGA conferences recharge me with new insights to continue this work.
