A Computerized Constructionist Approach To Simulation And Modeling Pedagogy

Abstract

A major limitation in traditional class lectures on simulation and modeling, that uses assignments, handouts, transparencies, and textbooks, is that students often are unable to appreciate the "experience" of simulating a real problem. This limitation can be overcome by using an active real case study approach to allow students to simulate a real-time queuing problem through interactive visual simulation software (EXTEND). Actual raw data had been collected prior to the case assignment and students are taught to develop the simulation model, based on the actual raw data. The intent is that by "doing" or "constructing" the simulation model from actual data, the students will understand better and remember.

Learning UI Functional Design Principles Through Simulation With Feedback

“…Some tools have been developed to offer "part-task practice," including worked examples and games. Simulation has the advantage of being capable of addressing whole complex tasks and has been used in multiple domains as a teaching tool, including areas of knowledge like mathematics [3], [4], physics [5], and engineering [6]- [8]. During the development of learning tasks, unlike real-life tasks, simulation gives teachers more control over the complexity of the tasks, the amount of student support provided, and mitigation of the risks associated with failed task execution.…”