14 post graduate year (PGY) 1 and 2 residents were included in this study and were randomized to receive either arthroscopic training with a surgical simulator or traditional didactic training. The purpose of the study was to determine which training method was more effective in improving arthroscopic performance, as assessed with a checklist, time to procedure completion, and an assessment of arthroscopic handling using a subjective Injury Grading Index. Findings indicated that the simulator method resulted in a significantly reduced time to completion and better Injury Grading Index score in shoulder arthroscopy, and a trend towards reduced time to completion and better Injury Grading Index score in knee arthroscopy.