Learning games and simulations have some similarities and some important differences. Both can be useful learning tools. What’s the difference? Let’s start with a couple of definitions. GAME: An activity providing entertainment or amusement; a pastime: party games; word games. SIMULATION: Representation of the operation or features of one process or system through the use […]

Yes, simulations are good ways to deal with training cutbacks and the need to economize in this business environment. Granted, this statement is a bit self-serving. Obviously, my business is writing and selling training simulations! That said, I really do think that using more simulations is good for a difficult current economic climate. Let me […]

Sometimes, it comes out of left field, completely unexpected. “Steve,” says the CEO, “I just finished reading this great book on leadership! There are some really outstanding ideas and lessons in here, and I want to get everyone onboard and implementing this. Build this into our leadership development programs, and get on my calendar to […]

Training Simulations Improve Learning Outcomes Research shows that learning activities that recreate work situations improve transfer of learning (Swanson & Holton, 1999). Aviation, civil emergency preparedness, business management, and medicine all use realistic scenarios to teach or improve complex skills. When the cost of failure is high and when the performance arena uncertain, simulations are […]

Where does the time go? I realized recently as I was going over some simulation work for a banking client that it’s really not the design and writing of the simulation that takes the most time. It’s really the reviews, edits, tweaks, and project logistics that seem to add up. Writing is a fairly simple, […]