Gaming and Simulation Defined | Origin: EL115
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Gaming and Simulation in Online Learning --> Gaming and Simulation Defined
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
In my view, online education can only be truly effective when we move away from the traditional "learning by listening" model toward a more active "learning by doing" approach. I believe games and simulations are powerful tools because they provide the critical application component needed for higher-order learning and real-world immersion. While games are fantastic for reviewing content through quantifiable outcomes and predetermined goals, simulations allow learners to act as agents in complex, dynamic models where their specific actions affect the result. The results speak for themselves: "practicing by doing" can lead to a higher retention rate, compared with passive methods. Although these tools can be time-consuming to implement and sometimes face instructor skepticism, the ability to engage diverse learning styles and allow students to master concepts by experiencing consequences in a safe environment makes them an essential part of a modern e-learning strategy.
Make use of simulators with students who demand learning as active agents with rule-based models like the real world.
Gaming ans simulation is an useful tool that can be implemented in many different courses
The module provides basic information on concepts, advantages and disadvantages, and the potential use of games and simulation combined and integrated as part of a learning strategy in an e-learning environment.
I do not yet know how to apply it in my private course, but I understand that it is possible to design a game, with simulation, to reinforce certain key elements of the course. I would have to think more carefully about how to apply it, what resources I have at my disposal and where in the course content a tool like this would be useful.
In my view, games are an indispensable tool in modern education. They act as a bridge between theory and practice, allowing students to actively engage in their learning. However, their success depends on conscious and strategic implementation: teachers must set clear objectives, choose the right type of game, and ensure the activity aligns
I learned that the core difference is that games focus on goals, points, and winning, while simulations focus on modeling reality to practice decision-making and understand cause-effect in a safe environment. Both are tools for learning by doing.
How I’ll apply it:
In my simulation course for engineering students, I won’t just explain system theory—I’ll have students interact with a real-time process simulator where they adjust inputs (like flow rate, temperature, or load) and immediately see how the virtual system responds. The goal won’t be to “win,” but to experiment, observe outcomes, and optimize performance through trial and error.
Question for the group:
Do you think adding game-like elements—such as an efficiency leaderboard—would increase student motivation, or would it distract from the realistic, process-focused goal of a simulation?
Los juegos y la simulaciòn, son un gran estimulante para lograr los objetivos de enseñanza con los estudiantes, es una de las maneras mas eficaces de obtener resultados
Gaming and simulation is a good way to keep students engaged and possibly even increase their retention.
Online learning is the new norm. games and simulation are a great tool will be a big advantage in student engagement.
To move away from traditional teaching methods, we turn to gaming and simulation to motivate students to engage in classes, especially online classes.
I learned that game-based learning creates meaningful, reality-based experiences that enhance engagement and critical thinking, while gamification only adds surface-level motivation. I plan to apply this by incorporating simulations and case-based games to help students practice skills in a safe, interactive way.
From this module, I have learned that gaming and simulation can be powerful tools to enhance engagement, critical thinking, and problem-solving when used intentionally in education. The readings highlighted that game-based learning goes beyond making content enjoyable by creating reality-based experiences where learners can take risks and immediately see the consequences of their decisions. I also came to understand the difference between gamification, which uses points or badges, and true game-based learning, which immerses students in meaningful scenarios and simulations. Moving forward, I plan to incorporate simulation activities, scenario-based quizzes, and role-play opportunities to give students safe spaces to practice skills, making learning more interactive, performance-centered, and aligned with the principles of adult education.
I have learned that using games and having interactive simulation platforms can be beneficial for both in-person and online courses. Although these are useful, there may be limitations.
In this module, I learned that gaming and simulation in online learning are related but distinct concepts. Games usually have clear rules, goals, and competitive elements that encourage engagement through fun and challenge. Simulations, on the other hand, are designed to replicate real-world processes or environments, allowing learners to practice decision-making and problem-solving in a safe and controlled environment.
What stood out to me is how both approaches support active learning. Instead of passively consuming information, learners interact with scenarios, apply knowledge, and see the outcomes of their choices. I believe this enhances the learning experience, making it more meaningful and easier to apply to real-life situations.
I am learning a lot in this module to apply in my classes.
En este módulo aprende que los juegos y las simulaciones son herramientas muy efectivas para el aprendizaje en línea, ya que permiten que los estudiantes participen activamente y experimenten de forma práctica los contenidos. Entiendo que estas estrategias hacen que el proceso de aprendizaje sea más dinámico, motivador y significativo, ayudando a que los conceptos se comprendan mejor y se retengan por más tiempo.
Pienso aplicar lo aprendido integrando juegos y simulaciones en mis actividades educativas para crear ambientes más interactivos y divertidos. También quiero utilizar recursos digitales y plantillas que faciliten la creación de experiencias de aprendizaje atractivas, con el fin de aumentar la participación y el interés de mis compañeros o estudiantes.
I found interesting that simulations are especially useful because they reflect real-world processes in a structured way, giving students the chance to practice without real risks. I plan to apply this idea by using simulations as a way for learners to connect theory with practice, especially when teaching skills that require decision making.
Time is the biggest hurdle
Excelente curso que nos permite descubrir cómo a través de actividades lúdicas o de simulación, conectas con el aula y conviertes el aprendizaje en un campo ágil.
Great material, which provides insight to the balance of formal lectures and simulation.
