The Emerging Field of Simulation & Gaming: Meanings of a Retrospect

Abstract

The author presents a framework for addressing the state of the art and science in the field of gaming and simulation and an overview of topics covered by the articles that fit into this scheme. Many empty cells still have to be addressed. Such a synthetic perspective on inquiry allows the gaming and simulation community to accumulate understanding on the field by looking for commonalities. Differences between a disciplinary and transdisciplinary revieware explored from the viewpoint of knowledge development in the social field of power. In that respect, designers and facilitators of games and simulations have to cope with putting their institutions at risk, as the form of knowledge generated through gaming and simulation (i.e., their social capital) may not count as recognizable currency. The articles give ample evidence of the related obstacles in research, teaching, and practice. Nevertheless, the articles show what has been accomplished and which major puzzles gamers still need to address to improve professional practice in research and education, in management and governance.

Keywords

diachronic perspective disciplinary review social/cultural capital synchronic perspective transdisciplinary review

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