Capsim Simulation
Pilot Background:
The idea of using Capsim originated after performing significant research regarding methods implemented by other universities to (1) improve student learning and (2) to use as an assessment tool to collect more accurate data. In particular, Kennesaw State University’s The Coles College of Business was highlighted in AACSB’s March 2012 Spotlight publication for its strong assessment program and use of simulations. Assisted by one of the Assessment leads from the college, Dr. Hope Baker, shared valuable insight with CBE staff into the success Kennesaw has experienced using Capsim simulations and testing. This resulted in a draft proposal to the CBE Dean for approval of a Capsim pilot in Spring 2013.
The proposal was approved and the Capsim simulation pilot was implemented in every section of MGMT 4650, the undergraduate capstone, a total of eight sections, and one MBA capstone course, MGMT 6800, in Spring 2013. Six faculty members and two CBE staff members were involved in the implementation of the pilot. All fees were waived for all participating students, over 300 undergraduate students and approximately 20 graduate students. Costs of the simulation and exam were paid by the college.
The simulation required a level of CBE staff support to provide assistance to faculty and students. CBE staff took the lead on monitoring and assessing the pilot for effectiveness in terms of use as an education tool and use as an assessment tool. This was assessed through meetings held with participating faculty, participating students, attending a Capsim annual seminar, and speaking with key Capsim representatives at the Capsim headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.
Assessment Measurement Tool:
At the end of the quarter, students completed an individual exam developed by CAPSIM and administered online. The exam simulated certain company decisions. Students answered the questions asked following analysis of the situation presented. Data from the identified/grouped questions were collected and aggregated.
328 BSBA and 19 MBA students participated in the Spring 2013 pilot.
Closing the Loop:
The Spring 2013 pilot was seen as a success in the two areas it was pilot testing: (1) use as an educational tool and (2) use as an assessment tool.
Faculty found students improved in areas of functional integration, data-driven decision analysis, teamwork and communication. Assessment staff found the simulation provided more accurate and transparent data to measure student proficiency in key areas. As a result, the CBE Dean made the decision to continue supporting Capsim for Fall 2013 in all sections of the MGMT 4650 course, with the plan to continue into the future. Use of Capsim has been continually monitored and adjusted for effectiveness. Data gathering strategies have also been adjusted to better assess the learning goals and objectives of the college. Lessons learned from feedback from participating faculty and students have provided a number of suggestions for improvement moving forward.
To better assist faculty to full integrate the simulation into the capstone course, CBE invited a Capsim representative to come to campus and hold a two-day seminar for the faculty who are teaching, or who normally teach the capstone course on September 16 & 17, 2013. The seminar was successful and helped 7 faculty better integrate the simulation into their course. CBE staff also attended the seminar to gain the knowledge and understanding in order to be a source of support for students throughout the academic year. Capsim has returned to the college on visits focusing on better implementation, customization, and use of data for assurance of learning. The most recent visit occurred in February 2017.
MORE INFORMATION
To read more on the Capsim initative see our multi-year Results Report published in February 2017.