Education for a Digital World Advice, Guidelines and Effective Practice from Around Globe, 2008a

22 – Computer-Based Resources for Learning
Figure 22.3. Simulation sample
Figure 22.4. Educational game sample
Simulations can be very effective.
• The knowledge gained tends to transfer well to real
situations if students can apply their existing knowledge
and experience. Active student participation is
critical.
• Effectiveness increases if the simulation is logical or
comparable to real situations.
• Effectiveness is enhanced if students are aware of the
learning outcomes.
• Effectiveness increases if students can gradually build
their skills. For example, when first learning how to
operate a nuclear power plant, the student should first
learn each system independently, then combinations
of dependent systems, and then the entire system.
• Effectiveness can stem from students being very motivated
to learn. Imagine your motivation if you are
involved in a life and death situation, or investing
your life savings.
Attaining excellent results requires more explanations
of the goals, learning outcomes, and directions
than tutorials or drill and practice methods. Some learners,
such as young or immature students, will have trouble
explaining what has happened in a simulation, or
transferring the knowledge to real situations.
348 Education for a Digital World