In this
course, in two of my classes in lower and higher vocational training, I will
use simulation-based management training program that integrates and reinforces
knowledge and skills learned in previous courses and current as well.
I will use
a simulation software, called Empresaula. It gives me very possibilities,
specially, in customized assessment of students.
The
simulation employs a competitive market environment in which students build a
business from the ground up to enter the new business created by them. The teams are tasked with introducing a new
line of products or services into several national markets: other students that
they are learning with this methodology.
The
simulation requires students to form executive teams consisting of seven or
eight members. Within each team, students work as the head or worker of
specific functional areas. Throughout the decision rounds, they conduct market
analyses, make tactical decisions with regards to product design, manufacturing
capacity, inventory management, human resource management, sales channel
planning, advertising, and financial accounting (a little bit).
On the one
hand, by students, simulation-based management training program is motivating to
students because they are learning by doing and it does that, they are actives
all the class. For example, if they arrive it a sale from other company, they
must to send it, because they need that team and company run well and they can
reach to proposed goals.
On the
other hand, by the teachers, to start this methodology imply significant work
because it must have both the clear objectives to teams and to every student as
well. Moreover, teacher must conduct executive briefings on a weekly basis. Each team
meets with him for about fifteen minutes to discuss and justify the decisions
that they are planning to make for the next fortnight. It's true, that's more
work in the beginning, but when you can see all students involved in your
company is very pleasant.
In summary,
Simulation-based pedagogy offers an experiential learning process that
emphasizes repeated action, reflection, accommodation, and testing. This
process allows students to refine their knowledge and developed business
skills. As such, simulation based-pedagogy can be implemented in any subject.
This is experiential learning opportunity for all students to develop an
understanding of business with a fun, intro-level business simulation.
