Development and content validity of an AI-assisted simulation scenario for orthotic fabrication in occupational therapy education

Background Developing high-fidelity simulation scenarios is a time-consuming process, and validated resources for complex psychomotor skills such as orthotic fabrication are scarce. This study aimed to examine the content validity index (CVI) of a simulation scenario for anticlaw orthosis fabrication developed with the support of artificial intelligence (AI). Methods A mixed-methods methodological study was conducted in an academic education program in Türkiye. Six subject matter experts with professional experience in hand rehabilitation, orthotics, and simulation-based education participated. A simulation scenario package was structured by the researchers, while the specific scenario flow was generated using a seven-step process supported by the generative AI tool ChatGPT. Expert reviewers evaluated five components, specifically objectives, background, prebriefing, scenario flow, and debriefing, using a 4-point Likert scale and open-ended questions. The item-level content validity index (I-CVI) and scale level content validity index (S-CVI) were calculated. Results The simulation scenario package was evaluated across five core components. The scenario achieved an I-CVI and S-CVI of 1.00. This indicated that all expert reviewers rated the scenario components as content valid by assigning a score of 3 or 4. Qualitative feedback highlighted the need for refinements in clinical fidelity, specific material choices, and safety warnings regarding heat and sharp tools. Conclusions The study provided educators with a comprehensive, ready-to-implement simulation scenario package, including validated learning objectives, prebriefing instructions, the full scenario script developed via AI-assisted methodology, and debriefing guides, that could be adopted to enhance orthotic training in rehabilitation curricula.