Insights from 40 years of educational research: honoring Jeroen van Merriënboer

Simulation-based education in healthcare has advanced significantly, yet a persistent gap remains between educational science and healthcare simulation research. The late Jeroen van Merri & euml;nboer's extensive work in educational science provides valuable guidance for bridging this gap. Four key insights from his research can serve as a strong theoretical bedrock for educators and researchers aiming to design more effective and cohesive simulation-based learning experiences: (1) integrating learning in both simulated and real environments to improve transfer, (2) offering targeted learner support that evolves with expertise, (3) embracing the complexity of educational practice and avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions, and (4) embedding domain-general skills within specific disciplines. Championing these insights may catalyze more theory-informed practice and research in healthcare simulation. Nevertheless, applying these principles in practice remains a challenge, highlighting the need for further research into the "how"-specifically how to interconnect learning environments, adapt instruction to diverse needs, integrate theory with practice, and combine the teaching of domain-general and domain-specific skills.