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Simulations and Game Learning

Training simulations are a great way to teach your work force. Using simulations you may show an employee how to do any number of things such as use a piece of software or perform some mechanical task, such as changing the battery in an iPhone.

 

Software simulations teach your users how to use an online system that demonstrates what to do and how to do it, then lets users practice it on their own in an environment that gives feedback for right or wrong answers.

 

Games can allow your workforce to practice strategies that are otherwise hard to master in a fun and safe environment. When learning is fun and entertaining, employees are much more interested and engaged. When skillfully designed, effective instruction still takes place.

 

Just in Time Learning

Does your company have many tasks that workers must perform on an intermittent basis? If so, using simulations for just in time learning fits the bill. Let your team call up an instructional video on the task as they perform the work. This can save time and money and allow workers to use their time productively rather than in routine trainings that they may need only once a year.

 

Training

Simulations can allow your users to watch how to perform a task, and then practice the task in a safe environment. Along the way they will receive feedback and can even be scored for tracking purposes. Everything from how to appropriately answer a phone call to assembling a carburetor can be shown, practiced, or accessed on the spot when and where it is needed.

 

The Design Process

The task of designing games and simulations begins with reviewing cognitive theories and models of learning such as Keller's ARCS model, Csikszentmihalyi's flow model, and Malone & Lepper's intrinsic motivation taxonomy. In the case of games, gamification strategies and models are used to analyze and design games and game-like experiences.

 

This results in a simulation or game experience which is educationally motivating and entertaining. Face-to-face simulations, role plays, and other activities can be designed to build social cohesion among learners and convey understanding of complex content.


The design process artfully balances the efficacy of the simulation along the parameters of realism, the learning goals of your company, playability, and fun.