Learning Games

Learning games, sometimes referred to as serious games or Immersive Learning Simulations (ILS), are games that are used to help learners better understand complex concepts and processes.  LeanForward creates custom learning games that simulate the business challenges learners face in real life.  Learners are required to complete realistic tasks in a controlled environment where they can test their knowledge and decision making abilities.  To maximize the learning value, users are also provided with instructional guidance as they progress through the game.

In addition to educating the learner, learning games are an excellent means to verify and reinforce the learner’s knowledge. For example, a learning game could be used to challenge branch managers to improve branch profitability at a simulated location.  The manager would be placed in charge of a standard branch and provided with background on the branch’s current performance.  They would then be challenged to reach a predefined profitability goal by adjusting numerous operational variables, such as staffing and incentives which they would be able to control in real life.

The benefit is instead of having to wait months to see what impact these actions would have on profitability, the manager would get immediate feedback on their performance.  This feedback often includes the impact their actions had on key performance metrics such as costs as well as instructional feedback on what they did right, what they did wrong and how they can improve.  The manager would then perform another round of adjustments to see how they can maximize profitability over time.  This process teaches the learner about the impact certain variables have, enables them to test their hypotheses in a safe environment and builds self-confidence in their knowledge and decision making abilities.  If a learner fails to reach their defined profitability goal during the allotted amount of time or cycles, they can perform the exercise again until they achieve their goal.

More advanced learning games may also incorporate “land mines” in the form of unexpected, yet realistic challenges such as the loss of key personnel.    

Click here to contact LeanForward and find out how our innovative learning games can help your organization provide learners with valuable decision-making experience quickly and efficiently.