Teaching IS with Simulations: Issues and Experiences
John Grundy
Topics of Information Systems lectures and tutorials are dynamic systems, such as business models and development processes, requirements specification formulation, andsystemarchitectures anddesigns. Using simulations in lectures, tutorials and for distance learning can significantly increase students' understanding of topics, teamwork skills and enjoyment of their learning experience. The concept of simulations and some of the ways they can be used during teaching Information Systems are explained and illustrated. Specific issues when using simulations during tutorials, lecturesandfor distancelearningarediscussed.Onedetailedandseveral briefcase studyexamplesof using simulation from the author's teaching experiences are described.
John Grundy is professor of software engineering at the University of Auckland. He has published 90 articles on softwareengineeringtools, information systemsdevelopment methods and technologies, groupware systems, software and component architectures,and user interfaces. Dr. Grundyhas a strong interest in information technology education, a field in which he has also published numerous articles. He is an advocate for problem-based learning in information technology education and uses this technique extensively in his university and training courses.
Return to the Table of Contents