Simulations for undergraduate courses

Self-paced exercise

In the self-paced exercise, the students compete against computer-generated competitors rather than each other. Whenever the students are ready to move on in the exercise, they can submit their decisions and immediately receive feedback from the market. The self-paced format allows the students to work independently or in small teams, and at their own pace. The self-paced exercise requires the least amount of coordination for the instructor. It is the ideal choice for large classes. To facilitate grading, the instructor is provided details of each student's strategy and tactics at any point of the exercise.

The following simulations are available for a self-paced (play-against-computer) exercise now.

• Introduction to Business and Strategy
• Introduction to Marketing
• Business Fundamentals
• Venture Strategy (in beta version through Summer 2010)

Semester-long course

The business simulation is the dominant activity for 8 to 10 weeks. The students compete in teams against one another. One decision is due each week, with 1 to 2 weeks set aside to prepare a business plan. The class is a mixture of lectures and simulation activity. Usually, one lecture period each week is set aside for team decision-making. An executive briefing is often scheduled every other week with each team.

The chief advantage of the semester-long course is that the students have more time to develop their critical thinking skills. They have time to reflect on their decisions and debate the options, tradeoffs, and potential outcomes with their teammates. Often, an undergraduate's lack of business experience will slow him/her down as he/she struggles with business issues for the first time.

The following simulations are available for a semester-long course (play-against-peers).

• Introduction to Business & Strategy
• Introduction to Marketing
• Business Fundamentals
• Venture Strategy
• Strategic Management
• Strategic E-Commerce