My son-in-law left for Iraq on Valentine’s Day. When I read this chapter, I couldn’t help but think of him as I read about simulations. As a navigator in the Air Force (who also has a pilot’s license), he surely experienced many flying simulations in the course of his education. Without these, he would not have been able to learn his skills in as safe and realistic of an environment.
Simulations are computerized models of a real or imagined system that is designed to teach how the system works. Simulations can teach about something such as how electrical circuits operate, or they can teach how to do something, as in the case of navigating an airplane. When using this type of software, learners interact with the simulation, and it reacts to them.
Simulations are often used in science and social studies. In Science students can experience the conditions and appearance of a chemistry lab or can dissect a virtual animal. In social studies, students can interact with decision-making processes for another civilization and then watch to see the results of their decisions.
A beauty of simulations is that they can make the impossible possible. When a teacher cannot provide the real situation, they can turn to simulation software to enable students to learn in a next-best way. Simulations also give the benefit of providing certain learning at a fraction of the cost and capturing students’ attention by getting them involved in their lessons.
Simulations are an amazing facet of educational technology!
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