The Power of Play: Using role-playing simulations in active learning classrooms

Presenter: Jason Charrette

This presentation will discuss the why and how of using role-playing simulations as the principal mode of classroom instruction. Using examples from courses taught at PSU, it will highlight how the approach promotes engagement and deep content learning, as well as how it builds soft skills such as collaborative decision-making and conflict resolution. It will conclude with a discussion of the challenges and drawbacks of blending rpg/sim gaming mechanics with traditional learning objectives.