The two major purposes of this book are to be an introduction to the development of instructional simulation systems in higher education and to provide a useful compendium of experimental simulation experience for those wishing to consider and utilize these and related techniques at the university level. Each paper attempts either to present a…

Simulation gaming is an instructional technique, uniquely suited to enhance the repertoire of the social studies teacher. As its name suggests, simulation is anything that recreates reality. A game, on the other hand, is an activity in which (1) participants agree to abide by a set of expectations in order to create an experience and (2)…

Discusses basic weaknesses and limitations of models, simulations, gaming, and other analytical and behavioral approaches to simplifying reality for understanding. The development and use of scenarios and the model builder's basic conceptions of the aspects of reality being analyzed are described for a one-person, computer-interactive, quasi-rigid…

This article examines techniques for measuring developmental stages of self-knowledge, and internal problem-solving orientations for dealing with the external environment, concluding with implications for game and simulation courses designed for self-development. (MB)

Outlines two traditions in the field of computer simulation, one focusing upon the character of the software within the computer, the other focusing upon the exercise outside the computer which the software is supporting. Topics discussed include mathematical modeling, gaming, information retrieval, decision monitoring, and applications in…

Designed to determine whether research in simulation and gaming follows research design methodology and the degree to which research is directed toward learning outcomes measured by Bloom's taxonomy of educational objectives, this article examines studies reported in proceedings from the Association for Business Simulation and Experiential…

This paper describes an experiment involving the use of laboratory education (Bradford, Gibb, & Benne, 1964; Bennis & Schein, 1965) and was designed on the assumption that improvement of communication in managerial workgroups enhances task effectiveness. (Author)

The aim of recreation should be to provide an individual with relaxation and fun, not to engage in competition with the only goal that of winning a game. (JD)

Development and testing of the Park and Recreation Development Simulator (PARDS) are described with predictive implications of the game results. PARDS can be used as a continuing education tool for training professionals, thereby increasing knowledge of the field and acting as a simulation experience in occupations. (Author/HLM)

A game-theory approach to illustrating elements of organizational culture can help to achieve desirable information exchange by aligning individual and organizational goals. The game approach should involve the values of permanence, trust, teamwork, and credibility and should be combined with appropriate reward systems and parity in…

Discussion of the impact of simulation games on learning focuses on a study of a college history course that compared game results with historical facts. A content analysis of the comparisons is presented, models of learning acquisition are discussed, and the learning stages that occur in a simulation game are described. (three references) (LRW)

Rational choice theory and its three branches (game theory, collective choice theory, and organizational economics) has altered the face of political science, sociology, and organizational theory. This chapter reviews rational choice theory, examines a small body of work that relies on the rational choice paradigm to study educational politics,…

Examines content themes in this special issue while simultaneously considering trends that may foreshadow new educational politics research directions. Questions the effects of playing-field conditions on reform persistence, explains how educational politics and policy games are played, and acknowledges the disillusionment prevalent in educational…