Do Simulations or Games Enhance Learning?

Simulations or Games might be appropriate to use to enhance learning in a lesson when they are relevant to the learning goal.  The simulations or games should also provide explanatory feedback and self-explanation questions; which are proven instructional strategies.  The games and simulations  designer should also be aware of the cognitive overload that can be caused therefore the complexity of the game should be managed.

When simulations and games are added to a lesson they may very well keep the attention of the learner.  Therefore in order for the game to be able to enhance learning it must be relevant to the teaching goal.  It makes no sense to have a game about the alphabet in a lesson about fruit from around the country.  One has nothing to do with the other.  You might as well place the game or simulation in the decorative category of media.

As the learner plays the game they should be given the opportunity to show what they have learned and explain their responses.  If for some reason their response is off or incorrect the game should be able to give the learner feedback as to why their answer is incorrect.  This gives the learner the support that they would otherwise receive from sitting in a classroom. Being able to understand why you got an answer wrong brings clarity and understanding to your work.

Lastly the game or simulation should not be too complex.  If the game starts off slow and easy it should gradually become complex still offering feedback, but it has also provided the learner the tools they need to complete the task.