This methodology has guided many professionals through strategic decision making based on the outcomes of experiential learning.  In today’s competitive business markets, organisations are seeking that all important differentiation when it comes to decision making.  Consequential learning is seen as the answer as it is easier to make decisions if it ‘feels’ like you’ve made them before and experienced the alternative outcomes.

Commonly used in consequential learning are computer simulations.

What is Simulation-centric Learning?

We all know that adults usually learn best by doing. So why do we constantly ask them to learn by reading, or by listening? Simulation-centric learning solutions do not ask learners to sit through screen after screen of text. Instead, using proven simulation methodology, they challenge learners to manage a business, project or team and learn from their successes and failures.

Simulation-centric learning is SimSkill's paradigm for creating the most value in online and in-class learning. Instead of using a simulation simply for testing or practice, SimSkill makes simulation the key driver of the learning experience. Learning is delivered throughout the simulation, both as part of the storyline and on demand, through consulting, tutorials, reference-tools and supplemental information.

Since simulation-centric learning is based on discovery learning, you do not have to spend time focused on learning what you already know. As you face each new business challenge, the system recommends a rich array of resources to help you make decisions: tutorials, best practice tips and tools. Get as much or as little help as you need to solve business problems and move ahead.

And since the simulation-centric experience utilizes goal-based scenarios, everything you do focuses on how new skills and new behaviours help you achieve real business goals. Success is not driven by how many test questions you get right, but how well you are able to optimise real business metrics, the same measures that businesses use every day.

The User Experience

Learners interact with real or simulated co-workers to make a series of decisions that are pertinent to their everyday jobs. SimSkill's simulations recreate authentic business environments, where storylines and decisions are based on in-depth analysis and research of real companies.

The authenticity and personal relevance of the simulations provide learners with meaningful, memorable experiences that lead to real world success. Simulation-centric learning is designed for the user to have a challenging experience that is highly interactive to maximize the retention and continuous application of knowledge.

Simulation-centric learning also enhances the sense of community within an organization by providing shared experiences and enabling learners to get support from peers.

The benefits:

• Learn by doing – simulated business environments provide business professionals with an engaging, interactive and realistic learning experience
• Based on reality – the simulations used in this type of training are living case studies and emulate an appropriate business environment where teams compete as they would in real-life
• Compelling and challenging – Simulations drive peak performance by creating a competitive environment where participants can exchange knowledge and combine skills from varying functions and expertise areas
• Risk-free environment – Simulation allows decisions to be made and conclusions to be drawn with no risk to a business
• Compression of time – Simulations provide an accelerated learning environment and decisions that may be made over a period of ten years in the work environment are condensed into several days
• Quantitative and qualitative feedback – Simulations provide complex and accurate feedback in both behavioural and specific skill areas
• Multi-dimensional learning – team, individual and group learning are all indicative of the simulation process
• Specific – Many simulations are specific and directly tackle areas such as: Leadership, Project Management, Finance, Corporate Strategy, Insurance & Manufacturing to mention a few. In addition, simulations can be manipulated for independent clients depending on their needs.

 E-learning