Situated learning occurs when students are put into situations that they have to work through by applying what they have learned. Situated learning can be called simulation. I shy away from the use of the word simulation because it is often associated with expensive and highly technology dependent simulation labs. The truth is, you don't need a simulation lab for situational learning.
Situational learning can occur in a classroom with a case scenario and small group activities (white boards may be helpful). It can occur with actors creating the scenario. It can occur when students are involved in community activities. The list of possibilities is virtually endless and open to imagination.
The most important things are planning and creativity. What do you want the students to get out of the exercise? How can you make that happen? A great simulation may involve others. The others may be students from another department or people from the community. It can occur on campus or even in another country. Whatever the scenario it should:
Have structure and intent
Build on previous learning through application
Be engaging
Take students out of their comfort zone (at least a little)
Include a some reflection to help cement the learning (see previous post)
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