Critical Reflections on System Dynamics and Simulation/Gaming

Abstract

Purpose. This article critically discusses the contributions in this symposium and the progress in the fields of system dynamics and interactive learning environments. Two Perspectives. For this purpose, the article uses two different perspectives. One perspective is system dynamics or model-based policy analysis and design. The other perspective is the learning sciences, that is, the theories and principles of learning. Commentaries. With these two perspectives in mind, this article reflects on each of the eight contributions to this symposium and gives critiques and suggestions. Recommendation. The results and insights generated by these contributions suggest that the greatest need for future research on system dynamics and its contribution to simulation-gaming is demonstration of improvements in learning and performance.