In recent years, the use of business simulators in higher education and corporate training has grown significantly. However, beyond intuition or individual experiences, it is essential to rely on empirical evidence to understand their true impact on learning. A study published in 2024, based on a sample of 427 university students, provides solid data confirming the educational benefits of integrating business simulations into the learning process.
Study Methodology
The study analyzed the experience of students who participated in a business simulation as part of a management course. Through structured surveys and a structural equation modeling approach, five key dimensions were evaluated: simulation experience, conceptual understanding, affective evaluation, teamwork and perceived learning.
The objective was to identify the extent to which interacting with a simulator influenced students’ sense of learning, course satisfaction and competence development.
Key Findings
1. Simulation experience enhances perceived learning
The central finding of the study is that participation in a business simulation significantly increases students’ perceived learning. The more immersive, realistic and well-designed the simulation experience, the higher the perceived learning outcomes.
This reinforces the idea that practical, contextualized learning facilitates a deeper understanding of concepts that might otherwise be internalized more superficially.
2. Increased student satisfaction
Simulation not only supports learning but also boosts overall course satisfaction. Students value the active approach, the opportunity to make decisions and the ability to experience real-world scenarios without risk. The experience is perceived as more motivating, dynamic and relevant for their future professional development.
3. Strengthens conceptual understanding and teamwork
The study demonstrates that simulations improve conceptual understanding by allowing students to apply theory in a practical environment. They also promote teamwork — a fundamental aspect of collaborative learning and the development of transversal competencies essential in real work settings.
4. No significant impact on highly technical skills
Unlike the previous dimensions, the development of very specific technical skills did not show a significant increase. This suggests that the main value of simulators lies in integrating concepts, making strategic decisions and reinforcing cognitive and social competencies, rather than training isolated technical skills.
Implications for educational institutions and instructors
The study highlights the importance of incorporating business simulators as a central tool in training processes. Their educational potential goes far beyond creating an attractive environment; they transform how students understand, apply and consolidate knowledge.
To maximize their impact, institutions should:
- Design realistic, immersive simulation experiences aligned with student level.
- Encourage team-based dynamics that enhance collaboration, communication and decision-making.
- Complement simulations with structured reflection and feedback spaces.
- Assess not only technical results but also perceived learning and overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
The 2024 study confirms that business simulators are not a complementary add-on but a high-impact pedagogical resource. They improve perceived learning, increase satisfaction, strengthen conceptual understanding and enhance teamwork.
In a professional world that is increasingly complex and fast-changing, these types of formative experiences are becoming one of the most effective methods to prepare students and professionals for real-world business challenges.
Source
Cai, Zhaoying (2024). The Influence of Business Simulation Game Experience on Students’ Perceived Learning Outcomes and Satisfaction. Journal of Modern Learning Development, Vol. 9, No. 5, pp. 216–234. Available at: so06.tci-thaijo.org.