Simulations and Games

If used appropriately, simulations or games can enhance learning.  When designing simulations or games, it is crucial that the “goals, rules, activities, feedback, and consequences are aligned to desired learning outcomes” (Clark & Mayer, 2011, Ch. 16, para. 59).  In my lesson, I taught how to make shrimp fettuccine.  An operational simulation could be beneficial since “operational simulations are designed primarily to teach procedural skills” (Clark & Mayer, 2011, Ch. 16, para. 10).  Near the end of my lesson, rather than the learner just being exposed to knowledge-level questions, the learner can do a simple cooking simulation.  The learner can experience cooking shrimp fettuccine virtually, which will test the learner’s knowledge of the lesson and promote far-transfer knowledge.  Explanatory feedback will be seen throughout the simulation.  If you follow the multimedia principles and research-based guidelines, games and simulations can enhance learning. 

Reference:

Clark, R. C., & Mayer, R. E. (2011). E-Learning and the science of instruction: Proven guidelines for consumer and designer of multimedia learning (3rd ed.) San Francisco, CA: Pfeiffer.