Simul Train - Pedagogic Concept

Pedagogic Concept

Training is done in small groups of 4 people in two sessions of 3–4 hours each. Each group has one computer with the simulation program. The participants thus learn how to work and make decisions as a team. The simulator allows the group to work on the progress and execution of the project. It confronts the learners with many situations requiring the ability of making fast decisions and of taking all of the project parameters into account (costs, deadlines as well as human factors). The feedback and consequences of the different decisions are immediately made visible. The simulator involves multimedia technology: the participants receive many phone calls, e-mails and voice-mails, thus immersing them in surrounding them in a realistic project atmosphere.

The trainees have to complete the project within the deadline and budget. Their main tasks as project managers include:

• setting up the project team, hiring employees with the proper qualifications at the right time
• showing team members their tasks
• making adequate decisions when facing difficulties, overrunning the budget or failing to meet the deadline
• maintaining a good team dynamic

With the simulation attendees learn in two ways:

• from the reactions of the people involved in the project to the decisions made. (Feedback).
• from the potent interactions that develop in the four-person groups as each person plays a very precise role (such as supervising the schedule, costs, quality, and motivation).

SimulTrain's only requirement is a general knowledge about project management, including the Gantt chart and the Activity Network. Both online and desktop versions of the simulator are available.