College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2017
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Lonny Simonian, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
Game based learning is a proven methodology of convening complex ideas and concepts to students. Game based learning creates an environment that is safe, enjoyable, stress free, and competitive. Construction management is no exception. In the classroom, there is only one way to provide real life experiences in creating and operating a business. That is through simulation software. Simulation software allows a user to experience many of the complexities that occur in real life while playing in an educational environment. This senior project will focus on one software package called The Building Industry Game. This simulation package provides its user a way to experience real life bidding on projects, management of those projects, as well as management of their company. When using the simulation software during one of my classes, I saw the large amount of potential information waiting to be extracted from the game. Core information taught in classes Construction Management majors take, such as accounting and construction lab classes, is embedded in the simulation package. Much of this information, however, was never presented this way to students and thus was confusing for players when using the simulation software. This is the difference between learning a subject and applying the knowledge. Applying knowledge and recognizing “cause and effect” is one of the major advantages of this method of education and is what separates the classroom from the simulation environment. I believe there are many areas of improvement for the game to better communicate important information to students and thus enhance and improve the overall learning experience
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/46