Classification of Evaluation Methods for the Effective Assessment of Simulation Games: Results from a Literature Review

Abstract

As a current trend in teaching, simulation games play an active and important role in the area of technology-based education. Simulation games create an envi-ronment for scholars to solve real-world problems in a risk-free environment. Therefore, they aim to increase the knowledge base as well as learning experienc-es for students. However, assessing the effectiveness of a simulation game is necessary to optimize elements of the game and increase their learning effect. In order to achieve this aim, different evaluation methods exist, which do not always involve all phases when running a simulation game. In this study, we conduct a literature review to analyze evaluation methods for three phases of simulation games: pre-game, in-game, and post-game. Thirty-one peer-reviewed research papers met specified selection criteria and we classified them according to a di-dactic framework that illustrates four phases of running simulation games: Prepa-ration, Introduction, Interaction and Conclusion phase. Based on the results, we provide a concrete evaluation strategy that will be a guide to assess simulation games during all phases. This study contributes to theory by providing an over-view of evaluation methods for the assessment of simulation games within the different game phases. It contributes to practice by providing a concrete evalua-tion strategy that can be adapted and used to assess simulation games.