The Impact of Simulations on Higher-Level Learning

Abstract

Often, political science, public policy, and public administration course objectives include statements regarding increasing responsible citizenship, developing a continued interest in public affairs and policy, building the capacity to integrate the course material to develop policy arguments, and fostering the ability to apply the theoretical concepts to “real life” situations. These objectives are beyond simple recall and comprehension and are often referred to as higher-level learning. However, the traditional pedagogical techniques of assigned readings, lectures, tests, and papers often fail to replicate the “real world.” As a result, some have turned to role-playing simulations to help achieve their course objectives. While the benefits of role-playing simulations are often touted, there is a dearth of empirical evidence to support this assertion. A survey of nearly 200 students in four sections of an entry-level course in urban policy is used to examine this gap in the teaching and learning literature and attempts to uncover the impact of multisession classroom role-playing simulations on higher-level student learning. The results of this study suggest that role-playing simulations are an effective means to give students the opportunity to engage in higher-level learning.