Simulation
Simulation is a student-centered learning approach which is accomplished though the teacher's manipulation of the classroom setting. The goal is to create a staged replication of an event or concept which the students can actively participate in. Simulations provide valuable ways to bring real-world concepts into the classroom.
In a simulation, students assume different roles and act out prescribed scenarios that allow them to put into practice particular concepts or skills. For instance, a teacher could set up a store and have students act as cashiers and customers. In this example, students can utilize their math skills in a realistic scenario, which will help them to transfer these skills when they make purchases in actual stores.
Although scenarios only replicate real-life applications, students will absorb and retain what they have learned better than something that they have only heard or seen. According to the National Research Council (2004), students enjoy learning and exert greater effort when they are active participants. They become more engaged when they get to conduct rather than read experiments and engage in debates or role-playing rather than listening to lectures.
Simulations are a powerful way to prepare students for real-world applications. They engage students' social, academic and intellectual interests. They enable students to apply what they have learned, and use their critical thinking skills to tackle realistic challenges. Simulations enable students to actively practice what they have learned, so that it becomes natural to them. This practice builds the learners self confidence and provides students with an opportunity to employ their metacognitive skills. Caine & Caine (2006) concluded, “Every student is biologically equipped to learn from experience—that is, each has the capacity for natural learning” (p. 50).