The importance of simplicity in simulation design David Andrew Educational Development, Queen Mary University of London

Historical Background - Simplex SAGSET (ISAGA) conferences SIMPLEX – simple structure – complex outcome A simple role-play simulation – exploring and predicting social phenomena

The SIMPLEX game Process Decide scenario Decide and allocate roles Engage with roles – folded sheet technique Run Debrief Requirements large group of participants, time – 3 hours Large space The SIMPLEX game

Examples General election Industrial dispute Arms limitation talks

Evaluation Positive Negative Fun experience Can be overwhelming Prediction and role base learning Good facilitator training – the God role Can be overwhelming Difficult for novice players Unpredictable No intended learning outcomes and therefore evaluation is difficult

Health and housing simulation Variations Health and housing simulation Creating a University simulation

Context Aims Creating a University The ADEPT summer school 14-30 participants, day 2 Historical introduction – video http://bit.ly/2y4OQ6Z Context The generate and discuss ideas about the nature of universities Foster discussion of different HE systems Encourage social interaction Aims Creating a University

Discussion topics The nature of universities Structure and governance Nature of HE curriculum Contract between universities and students Relationship between universities and society

The options General, unstructured discussion Discussion in roles Historical simulation

Advantages of simulation Fun Simple – the city state Freedom – no need to be accurate

My solution Scenario – loose, non-specific, small city-state Role of the Duchess Information and roles Based on numbers – 2 versions Selected roles – Mayor, Bishop, Chronicler Folded sheet exercise Badges Timing – about 1 hour from start

Interventions Briefing the Duchess, start and before return Supporting the Mayor Ensuring mixing – fiesta times Ensuring information – supporting the Chronicler Adding external current information, Riots Finance Papal decree

Debriefing In role, pairs Out of role, small groups General discussion Discussion of use of simulations

Evaluation It works Enjoyable Teaches about simulations The cultural question

Questions and comments

Conclusion – new definition A role-play simulation is a socially constructed/enacted thought experiment Thanks to Pat Parslow