Learning business through digital simulation: An analysis of student reflections

Abstract


 
 
 The use of digital simulations is becoming more prominent in higher education to provide students with authentic learning environments in which they can apply their knowledge as well as develop enterprise skills. These enterprise skills are those qualities necessary for successful employment after graduation. This paper investigated ten years of data gathered through student reflective assessments that identified their perceived learning from the completion of a course which contained an embedded digital simulation. Student reflections were analysed to determine the themes which defined their key learning from the course. Content analysis was undertaken using nVivo to determine the themes from the students’ individual reflection assessment. Outcomes of the study revealed that students self- reported successful achievement of three of the four course learning outcomes. In addition, students identified improvement in their enterprise skills and better understanding of business practices for their future careers.
 
 

Unlocking student success

“…Moreover, online simulations have been found to enhance not only teamwork but also leadership, conflict management, negotiation, decision-making, and communication skills, as highlighted by Lohman et al (2019). This study, supported by the findings of Barker & Davy (2019), indicates that students overwhelmingly perceive the teamwork component as instrumental in enhancing their learning and problem-solving capabilities. Furthermore, the simulations provide an authentic learning experience, further solidifying their value in the educational context (Lohman et al, 2019).…”

Aprendizaje Experiencial Basado en Simuladores de Negocios sobre la Satisfacción y el Desempeño Académico

“…Este enfoque, practicado a lo largo de los años, impacta positivamente en el rendimiento académico y la satisfacción estudiantil. Relacionado al análisis de Matute & Melero (2016) y Barker & Davy (2019), los hallazgos indican que los estudiantes se adaptan e interactúan con escenarios resolutivos en situaciones profesionales. Este enfoque no solo mejora el rendimiento académico, sino que también proporciona a los estudiantes habilidades prácticas esenciales para enfrentar desafíos del mundo empresarial.…”