Ferrari, M.,
Taylor, R., & VanLehn, K. (1999). Adapting work simulations
for schools. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 21(1), 25-53.
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Although computer-based simulations of workplaces are a promising way to
prepare high school students for the world of work, it is unclear how many
workplace simulations exist and how suitable they are for school-to-work
programs. An extensive survey located 142 workplace simulations, many of
which were not intended for the school-to-work market. Thirty-nine of the
most promising simulations were obtained and analyzed to determine potential
problems that might impede their use in school-to-work programs. These
simulations were classified according to type (e.g., Skill simulations; Role-Playing
simulations; and Strategy simulations) and then critiqued regarding common
problems in using them (e.g., usability, learnability, content,
and available teacher support). We indicate which problems are most common
and what educators can do to overcome them. We close with a propositional
analysis of two of the most promising workplace simulations that measures the
job-specificity and implicitness of their content. We conclude that
simulations can play an important role in school-to-work transition programs,
even if not specifically designed for that purpose.
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