Simulations “Incorporating Simulations in Higher Education: How and Why”

This study focuses on simulations as an active learning mode that is gaining popularity in higher education. It defines the concept, describes types for possible application and addresses the rationale for integrating simulations into traditional courses and the challenges involved. Beyond short and simple role play exercises, the study details the four phases of a comprehensive simulation project: from preparation and team work to negotiations and debriefing. Based on running simulations of world politics in Israel, jointly with participants worldwide, for over a decade, the chapter presents ‘No Place is Safe’, a simulation exemplar to illuminate the contributions of simulations as a pedagogical tool. Knowledge gain, skill practice and implications for the real world are offered as twenty-first century takeaways for educators and students alike.