Using simulation games to enhance learning in project risk management

Hybrid learning setting was developed to support the teaching of project risk management for an M. Sc. Course at NTNU. The course is also part of a master’s level continuing education program in organizational management. The hybrid learning setting presented in this paper contains the elements of a competitive game, group work, case study and a computer simulation. Its main aim is provide effective environment for learning project risk management. The results obtained from the evaluation shows that the hybrid approach is more effective than the use of stand-alone simulation games. Functional requirements of the hybrid learning setting were developed on the basis of several interviews with experienced project managers in project risk managers. All in all, ten functional requirements were developed and validated. Feedback from the participants shows that majority of the participants supports the arguments that these requirements have been satisfied in the design and delivery of the learning setting. The evaluation of the learning outcome shows that participants’ knowledge in all project risk management processes has been enhanced. The learning setting developed can also be used as a research tool to investigate the consequences of decisions taken during project risk management process.