Teaching without the teacher? Building a learning environment through
computer simulations
Int'l J. of Information Mgmt., 32 (2):
99--105 (April 2012)DOI: 10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2011.09.002
Abstract
This article analyzes the impact of a computer simulation (business
game) on the users’ perceived learning. The theoretical model developed
in this paper is derived from collaborative learning and human–computer
interaction assumptions. The hypotheses relating to group dynamics
and the user–computer interface design with the users’ perceived
learning are tested using the business game “FirmReality� on a sample
of 173 respondents. Multiple regression and qualitative results show
that, in a computer-based simulation context, perceived learning
is influenced more by human–computer interaction factors than by
group dynamics. Furthermore, results point out a negative effect
of interaction with the instructor on individual perceived learning.
These results support the possibility to automate the interaction
between teacher and students.
