Simply Simulation: an interactive CD-ROM-based approach for learning simulation concepts

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new approach to teaching an introductory simulation course using an interactive CD-ROM titled "Simply Simulation". This method utilizes several multimedia tools and a hypertext based web format. The simulation literature currently shows no studies on this proposed new teaching method. Course structure, requirements, and benefits of Simply Simulation are described in this paper. Simply Simulation gives detailed explanations on simulation concepts and easy-to-follow instructions in five modules. The student uses Taylor II process simulation software to model and analyze progressively more complex real life situations. Competencies gained are measured via a pretest at the beginning of each module and a quiz at the end of each module. This paper and Simply Simulation contribute to the simulation education literature by exemplifying how to enhance the learning effectiveness by utilizing various information technologies and teaching methods.