Simulation & Scenarios

Opportunities to make decisions in a real situation without the fear of failure

eLearning had its earliest design roots in cognitivist thought and courseware followed in that philosophy. Now, advancements in technology, such as digital simulations, make branched constructivist approaches to learning possible. Scenarios and simulations exploit instructional technology to let learners explore varied outcomes in a risk-free environment mirroring the real world.

Scenario-based learning is designed to put learners in a situation or context, introduce them to the issues and challenges in that context, and gives them an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills relevant to the situation. Learners typically navigate through the scenario by choosing options and are given feedback based on their choices and are allowed to make different ones to see possible outcomes; this is an approach similar to the experiential model of learning and is known to be a very effective learning tool. Learning occurs better when learners are immersed in situations that demand performance.

Simulations vary greatly in form and the learning outcome they target. They are best used for procedural knowledge and decision making skills.

Upside offers several types of simulations with varying degrees of fidelity:

Software Emulation

Software Emulation is simulated software that functions in a manner similar to the software being emulated. Often termed ‘application/system simulations’ or enterprise application training (EAT) they mostly teach procedural knowledge - features and functionality of a software application or system. These are perhaps the most pervasive form of learning simulation used by organizations.

Operational and Process Simulations

Operational and Process Simulations are designed to simulate common operational procedures and processes used within an organization that typically involve the use of software or objects, or elements of both. Such simulations teach procedural knowledge involving organizational process and objects/tools i.e., the proper steps to complete a task in an organizational context.

Principle-based Simulations

Principle-based Simulations are designed to put learners in an environment with which they must interact; the environment and its contents change based on that interaction. These simulations are used to teach guidelines & principles, soft skills and people skills (interacting with people).

Problem-based Simulations

Problem-based Simulations are designed to present learners with a new problem that they must solve. There is no single method or process to solve the problem, the learner must explore and evaluate multiple paths to determine which approach would work best to solve the problem. These are used to teach problem-solving skills in a specific context and environment.