Advantages of the performance simulation setting are considered, along with what can be studied or developed within this setting. Experiences at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and views on future development and research opportunities in the performance simulation setting are also discussed. The benefits of simulating the clinical setting in preclinical training, with dental education as the point of reference, are addressed. Each unit for practicing dentistry is identical and the equipment design reinforces principles and philosophies of performance logic. Referenced positions of the model and standardized equipment provide a controlled environment that promotes research as well as observation of the student. The objective is to observe and analyze the interaction of all variables involved in the delivery of dental care to enhance performance. Developments at UBC and changes that have taken place since 1982 are discussed with attention to the following variables in the performance setting: instrumentation in the oral cavity, simulation of hard and soft tissues in the oral cavity, technical or physical support such as light sources and the dental students' seat, dental student characteristics such as posture and vision, standardization through the use of numeric language, and teaching techniques. (SW)