Simulation games for engaging students when teaching operations and supply chain management to students: Using the QpQ simulation game as an example

Dekkers, Rob; Koukou, Marianna; Zhou, Qijun; Salgado, Eduardo Gomes

Abstract

In simulation games, a form of generative learning, students play an active role in their own learning process, seen as key to gaining and retaining knowledge. This chapter presents its advantages, different takes on how to achieve desired learning outcomes, and what efforts need to be undertaken by staff in the domain of operations and supply chain management. The points raised are showcased through the QpQ Simulation Game that replicates departments and processes at a manufacturing company. Three deliveries using different settings show that students’ knowledge and understanding of key concepts for operations management were refined, decision-making skills were enhanced, teamwork was boosted and a deeper understanding of the complex and dynamic processes for manufacturing companies was gained. Such outcomes are typical for using simulation games in teaching operations and supply chain management. At the end of the chapter, key points capture how to stimulate generative learning and increase student engagement, and reflect on when to choose a simulation game, which selection criteria could be considered and what are lessons learnt.

• Online Publication Date: May 21, 2024
• Publication Date: May 21, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jun 6, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 22, 2024
• Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing
• Pages: 192-212
• Book Title: Handbook on Teaching and Learning in Operations Management
• ISBN: 9781802201932
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4337/9781802201949.00017
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/12035971