Classification of evaluation methods for the effective assessment of simulation games: Results from a literature review

As a current trend in teaching, simulation games play an active and important role in the area of technology-based education. Simulation games create an environment for scholars to solve real-world problems in a risk-free environment. Therefore, they aim to increase the knowledge base as well as learning experiences for students. However, assessing the effectiveness of a simulation game is necessary to optimize elements of the game and increase their learning effect. In order to achieve this aim, different evaluation methods exist, which do not always involve all phases when running a simulation game. In this study, we conduct a literature review to analyze evaluation methods for three phases: pre-game, in-game, post-game phases of simulation games. Thirty-one peer-reviewed research papers met specified selection criteria and were classified according to a didactic framework that illustrates the four phases of running simulation games: Preparation, Introduction, Interaction and Conclusion. Based on the results, we provide a concrete evaluation strategy that will be a guide to assess simulation games during all the phases. This study contributes to the theory by providing an overview of methods for simulation game assessment within the different game phases. It contributes to the practice by providing a concrete evaluation strategy that can be adapted and used to assess simulation games.