Computer-Based Simulation Games: A Viable Educational Technique for Entrepreneurship Classes?

Abstract

Starting an actual business is difficult to do in most entrepreneurship classes. Thus educators must find ways to model the entrepreneurial process. Total enterprise simulations can play a role in the entrepreneurship classroom by adding value to conventional methods of instruction. For example, students can practice more complex skills and higher levels of abstract analysis and decision making under uncertainty. Simulations can introduce and reinforce the kinds of general management competencies needed by entrepreneurs as their ventures evolve from start-up to growth and consolidation. The most significant advantage of simulations vis-à-vis entrepreneurship is their ability to subject students to the same types of attitudes and behaviors evidenced by entrepreneurs in their day-to-day business careers.