Learning with technology

Theoretical foundations underpinning simulations in higher education

Abstract

Embracing learning for the future through learning technologies requires a clearer understanding of the pedagogies that inform the simulated teaching and learning strategies used to facilitate student learning. Higher Education e-learning literature often groups educational games with simulation. However, educational simulation attributes are different from games or simulated games with very different aims and objectives within the learning context, which have implications for technology-based learning designs. In order to optimize the use of technology- based simulation this paper presents the theoretical foundations of educational simulation in a disciplinary context. Understanding the simulation pedagogy will assist academics to create technology-based simulated learning environments that highlight the inherent simulation attributes to enable and facilitate learning.