Developing Learner Competences in (International) Strategic Management - Using Computer Based Simulation Learning Environments

Abstract: This paper will review the author’s research and experiences, as a Learning and Teaching fellow, of using computer cased simulation learning in Higher Education, in the area of Strategic Management and International Strategic Management.  The paper will be structured as follows:  An introduction to and a critical review of the limitations of traditional cased based pedagogical approaches to learning business strategy and international business strategy.  The paper will then review the learning and assessment model, developed over the past three years by the author, and which relates to more “Generative Learning“ approaches after Wittrock (1990, 1992) and Sharp, Knowlton, & Weiss (2005).  The tutor and student learning experiences will be described, based upon the use of commercially available simulation products, including “Country Manager” from www.interpretive.com, and which is based upon the dynamic simulated complexities of making strategic/market entry decisions into selected regions of South America.  The findings from both types of learning experience will then be comparatively reviewed.  The paper will overview the integration of such "learning by doing" or generative approaches to developing real world competences with underpinning theoretical concepts - including Real Options Theory as used for coping with areas of decision making under uncertainty and conclude by considering areas for further research on this area, especially in terms of metrics of gained domain based expertise.