Innovation Diffusion: Learner benefits and instructor insights with the DIFFUSION SIMULATION GAME

  • Authors:

  • Cindy L. Kovalik;Chia-Ling Kuo

  • Affiliations:

  • Kent State University, OH, USA;Kent State University, OH, USA

  • Venue:
  • Simulation and Gaming
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

This research project investigated student reaction to playing the DIFFUSION SIMULATION GAME (DSG) and how an instructor, who is a novice in playing online games, implemented the DSG in an online higher education course. The goal of this research project was to determine whether playing the DSG helps students learn and apply course content. In addition, the authors sought to understand how to implement and use the DSG effectively as an integral part of the online Managing Technological Change course. Results indicated that student reaction to playing the game was very positive and students felt the game helped them better understand the change process. For example, students felt the DSG provided insight into school culture, the amount of time needed to implement a change, and the need for a change agent to be flexible. The instructor learned the importance of clearly identifying learning goals when using the DSG in an online course and realized that debriefing is a critical component of using games or simulations for learning.