Evaluating Simulation Learning in a Distant Learning Instructional Model

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of the simulation Fingame in a graduate class, which was offered via interactive video network (P/N) to two distant sites. It was expected that learning and direct instructional contact would be positively correlated and that correlation would be reflected in superior performance among students at the host site. However, tests of differences between population means indicated that learning and simulation performance were significantly better at the distant sites. Moreover there was a strong, positive correlation between learning and simulation performance. These findings contradict previous research and suggest the need for further investigation into the role of simulations in the learning process.