A Simulation-Based Game for Project Management Experiential Learning.

Abstract

The inadequate use of project management techniques in software projects can be traced to the lack of efficient project management education strategies, where learning by experience and motivation are key issues. An experiential learning process for project management requires an environment where students can act as managers without the costs and risks associated to an unsuccessful software project. Simulation can support this process, but simulation tools lack the look-and-feel of a real project development environment. In this paper we propose a simulation-based game that can be used to provide experiential learning to project managers. A System Dynamics model describing a software project, a simulator, and a game machine that handles user interactions and presents simulation results in a game-like fashion compose the game. System Dynamics limitations to support a game-like user interface are discussed. Also, we present an experimental study that evaluates an experiential learning process based on the proposed game.