Gilding the Lily, Enhancing the Pedagogical Experience, or Fixing What Isn’t Broke: The Dilemma of New Simulation Versions

Abstract

The paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of releasing new versions of a simulation with added features and capabilities. The question is raised whether the goal set of the simulation designers and the goal set of the users are entirely aligned. Some goals of the designers, such as added income, may come into conflict with the goals of the users, such as realistic scenarios and user friendliness. Irrelevant and/or unnecessary features may help marketing and sales of the simulation, but detract from rather than enhance learning. The article uses the Business Strategy Game as a discussion example.