What structured exercise allows students to experience a situation and see the results of their decisions without negative consequences?

Simulations are structured exercises designed to create a realistic scenario in which students can make decisions and observe the outcomes of those decisions in a controlled environment. This allows participants to engage with complex situations and develop critical thinking skills without the risk of real-world consequences.

In a simulation, participants can test their strategies, understand the dynamics of their decisions, and learn from any mistakes they make during the exercise. This experiential learning approach provides opportunities to practice skills, enhance decision-making capabilities, and reinforce knowledge in a safe space. The immersive nature of simulations also encourages teamwork and communication, both essential competencies in many professional settings, including firefighting and emergency response.

While case studies provide analysis of real events, demonstrations show how something is done, and role-playing involves acting out scenarios with specific roles assigned to participants, simulations uniquely combine elements of realism and interactivity, making them particularly effective for experiential learning.