A Random-Strategy Criterion for Validity of Simulation Game Participation

Abstract

"Despite the widespread use of business simulations, an important and vexing issue regarding business games is whether or not participation is a meaningful experience. This paper introduces an original criterion for the validity of simulation participation that is akin to the random sampling error basis of statistical hypothesis testing. Specifically, whether the results of participants presumably acting on logical, analytical, thoughtful bases are significantly better than results obtainable on a random decision-making basis. If participants’ results are better than those obtained on a random basis, then this would suggest their strategy formulations are purposeful and systematic; that is, they are meaningful in this sense and, too, valid in this same sense. In this paper the random strategy criterion and its operationalization are first developed. The criterion is then applied to a substantial sample of simulation game participants. "