Simulation software

Definition of simulation software

Purpose of simulation software

Characteristics of simulation software

Criteria for good simulation software

Benefits of simulation software

Limitations of simulation software

Strategies for integrating simulation software

Guidelines for using simulation software

Examples of simulation software

Definition of simulation software

• It is a computerized (digital) model of a real or imagined system that is designed to teach how the system works.

• Simulation of something generally entails representing certain key characteristics or behaviours of a selected physical or abstract system. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simulation)

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Purpose of simulation software

• To teach how physical or abstract systems work.

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Characteristics of simulation software

• The characteristics depend on the type of tutorial software.

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Simulations that teach about something

Simulations that teach how to do something

Simulation that teach about something

• Physical simulations: Allow users to manipulate representations of things or processes on screen.

• Iterative simulations: Speed up or slow down processes that happen so slowly or quickly so that the learners could not see the events unfold.

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Simulation that teach how to do something

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• Procedural simulations: Teach the appropriate sequence of steps to perform certain procedures.

• Situational simulations: Provide hypothetical problem situations and asking the learners to react.

Criteria for good simulation software

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• Accuracy of system: A realistic accurate representation of a system is essential.• Accompanying documentation: Appropriate documentation is needed to show

the learner how to use it rapidly and easily.

Benefits of simulation software

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• Compress time• Slow down processes• Get learners involved• Make experimentation safe• Save money and other resources• Allow repetitions with variations• Allow observation of complex processes• Make the impossible possible

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Limitations of simulation software

• Inaccuracy of model: Simplified versions of systems may get inaccurate or imprecise.

• Misuse of simulations: Simulations are often used to teach concepts that could just as easily be demonstrated on paper with manipulatives or real objects.

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Strategies for integrating simulation software

• In place of or as supplement to laboratory experiments: Can prepare learners to make good use of the actual laboratory activity.

• In place of or as supplement to role-playing: Computerized simulations can take personal embarrassment and logistical problems out of learning experiences.

• In place of or as supplement to field trips: Sometimes the desired locations are not within reach of a school. A simulation is the next best alternative.

• Introduction and/or clarification of a new topic: Can build a learner’s initial interest in a topic.

• Fostering exploration and process learning: Can prepare learners to a make good use of the actual learning situation.

• Encouraging cooperation and group work: Can capture students’ attention and interest in working together.

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Guidelines for using tutorial software

• Introduce a lesson to the class by displaying the simulation.• Introduce a lesson by dividing the class into small groups.

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Examples of simulation software

Phagocitosis Boyles’s law Mitosis

Cell Projectile Circuit

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