What are the most effective ways to use simulations in higher education?

1 Choose the right type of simulation

There are different types of simulations that can suit different learning objectives, disciplines, and contexts. For example, role-playing simulations can help students develop interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills by taking on different perspectives and roles. Computer-based simulations can help students explore complex systems, models, or phenomena by manipulating variables and observing outcomes. Virtual reality simulations can help students immerse themselves in realistic environments and situations that are otherwise difficult or impossible to access. Depending on your goals, you should choose the type of simulation that best matches your content, pedagogy, and technology.

2 Design the simulation with clear instructions and objectives

A well-designed simulation should have clear instructions and objectives that guide the students' actions and expectations. The instructions should explain the purpose, rules, roles, and procedures of the simulation, as well as the expected outcomes and deliverables. The objectives should align with the course learning outcomes and the assessment criteria. The objectives should also be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. By providing clear instructions and objectives, you can ensure that the simulation is coherent, meaningful, and manageable for the students.

3 Facilitate the simulation with active involvement and support

As an instructor, you play a key role in facilitating the simulation with active involvement and support. You can help the students prepare for the simulation by providing relevant background information, resources, and guidance. You can also monitor the simulation process and intervene when necessary to provide feedback, clarification, or assistance. You can also encourage the students to collaborate, communicate, and reflect during and after the simulation. By facilitating the simulation with active involvement and support, you can enhance the students' learning experience and outcomes.

4 Evaluate the simulation with multiple methods and sources

A comprehensive evaluation of the simulation should involve multiple methods and sources of data collection and analysis. You can use both formative and summative methods to assess the students' performance, learning, and satisfaction during and after the simulation. You can also use both quantitative and qualitative methods to measure the students' knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors. You can also use both self- and peer-assessment methods to involve the students in the evaluation process and promote their self-regulation and peer feedback skills. By evaluating the simulation with multiple methods and sources, you can obtain a holistic and reliable picture of the simulation's effectiveness.

5 Review the simulation with continuous improvement and innovation

A final step in using simulations in higher education is to review the simulation with continuous improvement and innovation. You can use the evaluation results to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the simulation and make adjustments accordingly. You can also seek feedback from the students, colleagues, or experts on how to improve the simulation's design, facilitation, and evaluation. You can also explore new ways to incorporate simulations in your curriculum, such as using gamification, adaptive learning, or artificial intelligence. By reviewing the simulation with continuous improvement and innovation, you can ensure that the simulation remains relevant, engaging, and impactful for the students.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?