Instructional Strategies for Simulation-Based Learning

Abstract

Simulation is defined broadly here as a situation that enables relationships in a model to be explored and observed. The key features of instructional simulation (structural modeling, fidelity, interactivity and artificiality) are set out as a basis for considering instructional strategies that are appropriate to simulation. Instructional goals are also, it is argued, a strong determiner of approach. Broad instructional strategies for simulation are simplification and support, the former emphasizing graded levels of model complexity, and the latter help to keep the student involved and in tune with the model. Specific instructional strategies emphasize the distinction between procedural and process simulation. How these instructional strategies can be important for ITS development is discussed.