Advantages
Simulation activities that replicate professional vocational experience provide students an opportunity to more readily see the application of theoretical concepts beyond the scope of the classroom. Fosters collaboration, communication, and negotiation skills which have directly enhances student employability in the context of foreign diplomacy, but also have wider transferability to numerous vocational contexts. Simulation exercises are typically engaging, dynamic, and promote active and collaborative learning , all of which are valued (are readily transferable to other disciplines).
Challenges
This is a time intensive technique to prepare, execute and mark. However, this is balanced somewhat by the highly positive learning outcomes for students which this assessment helps promote. May not support students who struggle with group participation and/or public speaking –this is mitigated by the fact that the
simulation
is only worth 10 of the total 25 of marks.
Tips for implementation
Coordinators should encourage a diversity of skills in the membership of each group (to help ensure engagement in all aspects of the exercise – written , managerial/collaborative, and performative ). This might require some executive decision-making when forming groups at the beginning of the task.
How it supports academic integrity
Basing the simulation on a relevant contemporary case study (or developing a similarly salient hypothetical situation that aligns with key themes, theories or conceptual approaches covered in the course content) reduces potential for academic misconduct. Students must verify contributions to preparatory work by interacting with both staff and group members, as well as uploading preparatory work to blackboard.