Simulation Based Group Learning

Abstract

This article describes an experiment investigating simulation based group learning. For this purpose, we have conducted a four-group Solomon experiment under four different conditions: a1) the determination of strategy with the application of the system dynamics (SD) model without group interaction and with a pre-test, a2) the determination of strategy with the application of the SD model and group information feedback and with a pre-test, a3) the determination of strategy with the application of the SD model and without a pre-test, and a4) strategy determination with the application of the SD model and group information feedback and without a pre-test. The observed variables were the criteria function values and frequency of the simulation runs. The hypothesis that simulation model application and group feedback information positively influence the convergence of the decision process and contribute to faster decision-making was confirmed. A model of the learning during the decision-making process was developed. Students’ opinions were analyzed as well and the results show that management students thought that the application of the simulation model did contribute to an increased understanding of the problem, the faster finding of solutions and the increased confidence of participants. All participants agree that the clear presentation of the problem motivates participants to find the solution.