Simulation in Facilitation of Operations Management Education

Traditionally, discrete event simulation is associated with logistic system analysis due to its role as an operations research method. In this article, we consider a multiple case study on the alternative use of simulation for operations management education. When stressing the role of the student or trainee instead of operations—as in operations research—alternative demands on model set up and use arise. Identifying such demands and ways to deal with them extends simulation methodology by showing how to exploit existing simulation knowledge and tools for pedagogic purposes. Our multiple case study evaluates four simulation-based games reflecting operations systems in health care and manufacturing. Respective games target learning activities of a different nature. Outcomes of the evaluation provide insights on modelling requirements, and guidelines and good practices that are supportive in meeting these.