Evaluating a Simulation Project to Optimize Student Learning of Project Management

Virtual Paper ID: 55030
  1. aaa
    Victor Sohmen
    Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and Penn State University

Abstract: Projects are unique, innovative ventures that are time-limited and resource-constrained, to balance time, cost, and performance. In training students in the art and science of project management, the Sim4Projects software enables learning of practical aspects of bidding for, hiring, and matching personnel to specific tasks within the project, to schedule tasks, and to control costs and quality--within an allocated initial budget. During Spring 2019 semester, classes were divided into groups of 5 members who chose a leader and a team name ('Team Tigers') to boost morale. Each team was in friendly competition with other teams, as each round of play would result in rank-ordering of teams based on their efficiency. There were 2 rounds of Pre-Play and 12 rounds of Play in 4-6 days' cycles along the learning curve. The instructor processed each round, ranking each team according to overall efficiency of play. To enhance learning, no penalties were imposed for sub-optimal choices by less efficient teams in executing the project functions. Teams received 1 point for each round on meeting deadlines. They had an ongoing Log of strengths/weaknesses toward Self-Directed Learning. Each team member also made a Peer Evaluation of fellow-team members for their contributions for mutual accountability. A Post-Project Review was then submitted by each team, summarizing their intensive, accelerated, & round-by-round project management learning experience for knowledge management.

Topics

Conference attendees are able to comment on papers, view the full text and slides, and attend live presentations. If you are an attendee, please login to get full access.
x