Assessing I.R. Simulations
Reilly, February 2005
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simulations are increasingly used in the international relations
classroom, it is useful to consider how different types of
simulations can be used to achieve specific instructional
objectives. This study offers a typology of role-playing
simulations –
dilemma of choice games, cultural/historical
games, and rules/process games – and describes some of the
benefits and limitations of each. It also examines methods for
assessment and highlights the process of debriefing as critical
to experiential learning.
Simulations in the Classroom
Simulations have been closely tied to international
relations as tools for research. Models have been created for
understanding real world processes, for predicting the