Active and Cooperative Learning Using Web-Based Simulations

The author discusses the advantages of using computers and the World Wide Web in classroom simulation exercises. Using networked computers permits a richer simulation design, allows more complicated decisions by the students, and facilitates reporting results for later discussion. The Web is an ideal technology for such simulations because computers already have Web-capable browsers, with which students are familiar, and information on creating Web sites is readily available. The author discusses these points in the context of a sample simulation that teaches basic economic principles of trade, investment, and public goods in the context of American economic history.