Results show that, although simple decision-making skills are easily acquired through conventional teaching methods, simulation games are useful tools for mastering managerial skills, such as complex and dynamic decision-making.
The use of simulation games as a pedagogic method is well established though its effective use is context-driven.
Other students perceive simulation games as fun, but not particularly useful as an instructional method compared to lectures, and about equally useful as case discussions (Beuk, 2015).
This multi-method study finds evidence that student learning was enhanced through the use of simulation games, reflected in the two key themes; simulation games as a catalyst for learning and simulation games as a vehicle for learning.
Where can simulation games go in the future?
"We've got Smash Brothers type games, trivia games, sports games, first-person shooters, strategy and simulation games... Something for everyone.
Simulation games were popular in both categories.
The study "A Meta-Analytic Examination of the Instructional Effectiveness of Computer-Based Simulation Games" found that simulation game-based training results in 20% higher self-efficiency, 9% greater retention, 11% greater declarative knowledge and 14% greater procedural knowledge than instructional training methods.
The most prominent game genre identified in the relevant literature seems to be simulation games in general, that is to say, virtual/online games or simulations, computer-based learning, role-playing games, serious games, and business simulation games.
Simulation games also positively affect clinical practice situations.
