Workshop - Carolyn Shaw

Designing and Using Simulations in the Classroom

Dr. Carolyn Shaw, Wichita State University, USA

carolyn.shaw@wichita.edu

Overview:

This workshop is targeted for teachers at all levels who are interested in a hands-on experience to learn how to design their own simulations / role-play scenarios for the classroom. The material is designed to accommodate those who have never used simulations before as well as those who are veterans of active learning. The workshop facilitator will introduce the core elements necessary for a successful simulation, encourage a dialogue about some of the design parameters that instructors must consider, and conclude by helping participants create a customized simulation for their own use. Participants will receive a packet of resource materials for their own future use.



Justification:

The use of active learning methods is rapidly increasing across disciplines. One method that is particularly popular is the use of role-playing and there are a growing number of "off the shelf" scenarios available for instructors to use in the classroom. Despite the growing number of published simulations, there is still a need for customized simulations that meet the specific learning objectives of instructors. The task of designing your own simulation, however, can be quite daunting even for those who regularly make use of them in the classroom. There are a variety of issues to consider in order to make your simulation a maximally effective teaching tool. Even when you know what issues to consider, it can be difficult to reach a decision on the design without discussing options with colleagues. This workshop is designed to help instructors consider design issues, and benefit from an exchange of ideas with others.



Precedent:

The content in this workshop has been presented in several conferences in the US and abroad. Attendees from the 2006 workshop have recently published an article on the simulation that they created during their participation in the workshop.



Content and Structure:

This workshop has been conducted in the past in 1 ½ hours, and in a half-day format. I am open to accommodating whatever format fits in the conference schedule, but the half-day format allows participants to complete more of their custom design together than they can in a shorter period. The workshop format is ideal for between 6 – 16 participants.



I. Introduction / Overview

• Structure of workshop / overview of resource packet

II. Getting Started

• Selecting a topic

• Establishing Learning Objectives

• Determining the duration of the simulation

III. Designing the Exercise

• Considering group interactions - promoting cooperation and collaboration

• Preparing background information

• Preparing role specific instructions

• Establishing a timeline / simulation phases

• Considering pre-simulation student preparations (reading / writing)

IV. Running the Simulation

• Assigning student roles

• Special room requirements

• Instructor's role during simulation

• Providing a crisis update

V. Debriefing and Learning Assessment

• Student or instructor led?

• Grading

• Written work / Quiz

VI. Q & A

VII. Small Group Work

• Break into smaller working groups (3-4 people) with those who have similar topical interests based on target classes;

• Custom design a simulation for your own classroom

VIII. Conclusion

• Report out from the working groups on the simulation designs



Background of the Facilitator:

Carolyn Shaw is Associate Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University. She has been a member of the Active Learning in International Affairs section (ALIAS) of the International Studies Association for eight years and has served as the Vice President (2005-6) and President (2006-7) for the section. She is also involved with the Political Science Education section of American Political Science Association (APSA). She has led workshops at International Studies Association Midwest (ISA–MW), American Political Science Association (APSA), International Studies Association (ISA), and British International Studies Association (BISA) on various aspects of active learning. Carolyn has published articles on role play exercises in International Studies Perspectives and the Journal of Political Science Education. Her most recent publication is on a collaborative teaching endeavour with Carleton University in Canada. In 2007 she was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award by the WSU Board of Trustees. She will serve as a Fulbright Scholar to Marie Curie Sklodowskiej University in Lublin, Poland in 2011.