The Simulation is Over... Can We Play Again?

The prize is as simple as bragging rights and a listing in the Capsim Challenge Hall of Fame, but each semester hundreds of students sign up – because they find simulation learning fun.

Professor James Zeigler, from Bowling Green State University, has seen 12 student teams reach the final rounds of the Foundation Challenge. Winning students receive a media release they can include in their resume portfolio, and Professor Zeigler says employers are impressed by their achievement.

“Prospective employers recognize the benefits of simulation,” Professor Zeigler said. “Many employers have demonstrated a high level of interest in hearing about our student experiences during the interview process.”

Professor Norma Juma, from Washburn University, has also seen at least six of her students place in the Capstone Challenge finals. She agrees that the value of simulation learning demonstrates itself once the student graduates.

“The greatest benefits are the testimonials from alumni who talk about the transferable skills they acquired from Capstone,” Professor Juma said. “Some of the things the students rave about are learning how to make an educated forecast and capacity planning. All businesses must plan for appropriate levels of inventory to avoid stockouts. Team dynamics and ethics plug-ins are some of the transferable skills that students talk about, years after graduating.”