Corporate Cartooning

This explores the verisimilitude of the simulation model in terms of two paradigms - the Hunter-Gatherer (positivist) paradigm and the Corporate Cartooning (constructionist) paradigm.

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Hunter-Gatherer (positivist) paradigm

This, the posivitist paradigm, proposes that the quality of a computer simulation is determined by the "realism" of the simulation model and so its design should focus on and begin from developing a realistic business model.

There is a body of opinion that articulates "management simulations are valid pedagogic tools provided they are complex and realistic. [1]" Yet another author claims that designers "..... all have the common objective of making their model as realistic as possible [2]" Consequentially, the design focus is on representing reality (face validity) and this requires a complex model. Thus a third author states that "a gaming simulation's purpose can well be the last consideration in its development rather than its first [3]" And later, in the same paper, suggests that a simulation's learning purpose is discovered after its design and that this is a common situation. To me this seems to parallel the situation facing primitive man arriving back at the cave to inform his partner that they will be eating the "catch of the day".

When it comes to the assertion that complexity is good consider for a moment, journey planning. Would you rather use a aerial photograph (the most real and complex representation of geography)? Or a map that highlights the major roads, focuses on journey planning and eliminates clutter?

Corporate Cartooning (constructionist) paradigm

This, the constructionist paradigm, proposes that the design of a computer simulation should be determined by its purpose (learning need, target audience, duration & manner of use) and that the model should be a simplified and stylised reflection of the real world.

Consider the subway map (to the left). This is designed for and used for a specific purpose (travelling by subway in the city). It is a stylised simplification of geography. The actual rail lines are not straight and the distances shown are not accurate representations of physical distance. In the city centre, where the stations are close together, the map is stretched. Outside the centre, where stations are spread, distances are compressed.

I believe that a computer simulation must be designed to meet specific learning objectives. And to deliver these effectively and efficiently, the model must be simplified [4] (eliminating superfluity) and stylised (to ensure satisfactory learning). The design must extend beyond this and, like the cartoon [5], must be engaging, insightful, provide a unfolding experience and be memorable fun. Thus, besides the modelling dimension, the design must incorporate suitable dynamics, cognitive challenges and suitable affective feedback.

In conclusion, I feel that the positivist paradigm is naive and primitive. And it equates to the hunter-gatherer who got sustenance by hunting Mastodons and gathering berries. Happily, we have moved on from our primitive forebears and our food supply is more reliable, efficient & consistent and food is easier to obtain and use. A situation that, for computer simulation, is delivered using the constructionist (Corporate Cartooning) paradigm.

Issues	Positivist Paradigm	Constructionist Paradigm
Metaphor	Hunter-Gatherer	Corporate Cartooning
Design Focus	Model reality	Learning Purpose
Complexity	Complex	Simple
Verisimilitude	Exact replica	Stylised replica
Engagement	Through realism	Through purpose and design
Dynamics	Static	Dynamic and unfolding
Cognitive Development	Natural through model reality	Designed in
Affective Feedback	Natural through model reality	Designed in
Duration of Learning Event	Long	Short
Learning Focus	Unfocused - discovered after design [3]	Closely on learning purpose
Usability	Not considered	Designed in
Tutor Support	Not considered	Designed in

1. Miller, R. and T. Leroux-Demers (1992) Business Simulations: Validity and Effectiveness Simulation/Games for Learning 22 4:261-285

2. Decker, Ronald James LaBarre, and Thomas Adler (1987) The Exponential Logarithm Function as an Algorithm for Business Simulation Developments in Business Simulation and Experiential Exercises Vol 14

3. Thavikulwat, Precha (2004) The architecture of computerized business gaming simulations Simulation & Gaming Volume 35 Number 2 June 2004

4. Hall, Jeremy J. S. B. and Benita M. Cox (1994) Complexity: Is it really that simple Developments in Business Simulation & Experiential Exercises Volume 22

5. Hall, Jeremy J. S. B. (2001) Corporate Cartooning: The art and science of computerized business simulation ASTD TechKnowledge Conference 2001

Most recent update: 04/06/04
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