HIGHER-ORDER LEARNING AND WORKPLACE PREPARATION THROUGH A COMPUTER-BASED SIMULATION

Stephen L. Baglione
Saint Leo University
Louis A. Tucci
The College of New Jersey
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study is to assess whether computer-based simulations, which offer approximations of the business world without the dire consequences of financial ruin, are perceived by students as creating higher-order learning and preparing them for the business world. Students’ perceptions of PharmaSim indicate it provides higher-order learning in absolute and relative terms (i.e., on Bloom’s Taxonomy and in comparison to lecture and cases, respectively). A Structural Equation Model shows that this higher-order learning improves students’ overall evaluation of the simulation and its ability to prepare them to be future managers in a realistic setting.