Simulation Model DomainThis page explores positioning the business simulation model in terms of simplicity and stylisation and the implications of this positioning in terms of learning and engagement. |
Simulation models are positioned in terms of simplicity (horizontal axis) and stylisation (vertical axis) on the Simulation Model Domain.
Simplicity impacts directly a simulation's duration and through this development costs and this impacts efficient learning.. Stylisation allows one to emphasise issues, help learners understand the relationships between decisions and results and engagement. and this impacts effective learning.
Simulations on the Simulation Model Domain typically replicate
These these attempt to replicate exactly a business. Because of this they suffer from several possible problems. They are complex and this means that they have long durations. The focus on replicating reality misses the purpose - providing learning and engagement, Another common problem is that learners have preconcieved ideas about the simulated business they manage.
These replicate in a stylised and simplified way a particular industry and it's issues. Simplification helps reduce duration. improve learning and engagement. Often these are more than adequate for use on business acumen, business appreciation and financial for non-financial managers courses..Examples of this form of simulation are the Challenge Series.. Each of which address the issues of different industries and model their financial, marketing and operationa structures.
These simulations use invented products and market situations to provide an engaging and challenging business situation. A situation where learners have to think deeply without preconcieved ideas. This allows marketing and business strategy to be explored in depth. So, for example Global Operations uses an imaginary virtual patient; Product Launch uses an imaginary self-heating soup and Service Launch uses an Imaginary taxicab company servicing the party animal market - Chucker Cabs.
At the top of the Model Domain is where the stylisation becomes surreal. I have only developed one simulation that arguably could be regarded as surreal - my Politico Game. This replicated the spin elements of the British Political situation. However, it has been suggested to me that it was the situation modelled that was surreal rather than the simulation.
I have found that simulations positioned between just below the Generic Business level to the Imaginary Business level have delivered engaging learning. And, simulations that attempt to replicate real businesses too accurately are confusing, take too much time and as a result do not deliver effective and efficient learning.
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Most recent update: 30/12/08
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