Abstract
Simulation-based scenarios are used in different approaches for research on complex problem-solving processes. The micro-world approach in this respect has become well known. Despite its attractiveness, there still are concerns about the validity that can be achieved in measuring cognitive functions by means of this method. The chapter refers to an alternative. Quasi-experimental simulations are applied to indicate the individual’s underlying capacity to function in complex, dynamic scenarios. Typically participants get deeply involved in the defined task, resulting in high motivation. The participants’ responses, within the ongoing events, mirror their performance in real-world tasks which is a foundation for validity. Results on graphic measurement representations and research findings on validity of measurements from double-blind experiments are discussed.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Access this chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
References
Breuer, K., Molkenthin, R., & Tennyson, R. D. (2006). Role of simulation in web-based learning. In H. F. O’Neil & R. S. Perez (Eds.), Web-based learning: Theory, research, and practice (pp. 307–326). Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum.
Breuer, K., & Satish, U. (2003). Emergency management simulations: An approach to the assessment of decision-making processes in complex dynamic crisis environments. In J. J. Gonzaléz (Ed.), From modeling to managing security—A system dynamics approach (pp. 145–156). Kristiansand: Norwegian Academic.
Breuer, K., & Streufert, S. (1995a). Strategic management simulations the German case. In M. Mulder, W. J. Nijhoff, & R. O. Brinkerhoff (Eds.), Corporate training for effective performance (pp. 195–208). Norwell: Kluwer Academic.
Breuer, K., & Streufert, S. (1995b). Computerunterstützte Eignungsdiagnostik mit komplexen dynamischen Szenarios: Ausräumen von Missverständnissen [Computer-based diagnostics of aptitudes by means of complex dynamic scenarios: Clarification of misunderstandings]. Zeitschrift für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, 39, 34–36.
Doerner, D. (1996). The logic of failure. New York: Metropolitan Books, Henry Holt.
Doerner, D., Kreuzig, H. W., Reither, F., & Stäudel, T. (Eds.). (1983). Lohhausen—Vom Umgang mit Unbestimmtheit und Komplexität. Bern: Huber.
Dörner, D., & Wearing, A. J. (1995). Complex problem solving: Towards a theory. In P. A. Frensch & J. Funke (Eds.), Complex problem solving: The European perspective (pp. 65–99). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.
Fromkin, H. L., & Streufert, S. (1976). Laboratory experimentation. In M. D. Dunette (Ed.), Handbook of industrial and organizational psychology (pp. 415–465). Chicago: Rand-McNally.
Funke, U. (1993). Computerunterstützte Eignungsdiagnostik mit komplexen dynamischen Szenarios [Computer-based diagnostics of aptitude by means of complex dynamic scenarios]. Zeitschrift für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, 37, 109–118.
Haritz, J., & Breuer, K. (1995). Computersimulierte und dynamische Entscheidungssituationen als Element der multikulturellen Personalentwicklung. In J. M. Scholz (Ed.), Internationales Change-Management [International change management] (pp. 109–120). Stuttgart: Schäffer-Poeschel.
Hussy, W. (1998). Denken und Problemlösen/Thinking and Problem-Solving (2. extended edition). Stuttgart: Kohlhammer.
Kauffman, S. A. (1992). Origins of order: Self-organization and selection in evolution. New York: Oxford University Press.
Kauffman, S. A. (1995). At home in the universe: The search for laws of self organization and complexity. New York: Oxford University Press.
Kauffman, S. A. (2002). Investigations. New York: Oxford University Press.
Molkenthin, R., Breuer, K., & Tennyson, R. D. (2008). Real-time diagnostics of problem-solving behavior for business simulations. In E. L. Baker, J. Dickieson, W. Wulfeck, & H. F. O’Neil (Eds.), Assessment of problem solving using simulations (pp. 201–221). Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum.
Satish, U., & Streufert, S. (2004). Training to defend: SMS simulations. ISCRAM 2004 Book of Abstracts, 42.
Streufert, S. (1970). Complexity and complex decision making: Convergences between differentiation and integration approaches to the prediction of task performance. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 6, 491–509.
Streufert, S. (1993). Assessment/training of senior personnel with the strategic management simulations. In 35th Conference of the Military Testing Association (pp. 429–433), Williamsburg, VA.
Streufert, S. (1997). Complexity: An integration of theories. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 27, 2068–2095.
Streufert, S. (2005). Emergency decision making and metacomplexity. In B. Van de Walle & B. Carle (Eds), Information systems for crisis response and management (pp. 67–73). SCK.CEN and Universiteit van Tilburg ISCRAM 2005.
Streufert, S., & Gengo, F. M. (1993). Effects of drugs on human functioning. Basel, Switzerland: Karger.
Streufert, S., & Pogash, R. (1998). The effect of limited alcohol consumption on complex task performance. In J. Snell & M. M. Lorist (Eds.), Nicotine, caffeine and social drinking (pp. 331–346). Amsterdam: Harwood.
Streufert, S., Pogash, R., & Piasecki, M. (1988). Simulation-based assessment of managerial competence: Reliability and validity. Personnel Psychology, 41, 537–557.
Streufert, S., & Satish, U. (1997). Graphic representation of processing structure: The time-event matrix. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 27, 2122–2132.
Streufert, S., & Satish, U. (2003). Strategic management simulations: From psychology research to medical practice. American Psychological Society Observer, 16, 9–54.
Streufert, S., Satish, U., Pogash, R., Gingrich, D., Landis, J. R., Lonardi, L., et al. (1996). Effects of alprazolam on complex human functioning. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 26, 1912–1930.
Streufert, S., & Streufert, S. C. (1978). Behavior in the complex environment. New York: Wiley.
Streufert, S., & Streufert, S. C. (1981). Experimentation in behavioral medicine: In search of an applicable method. In J. E. Eiser (Ed.), Social psychology and behavioral medicine (pp. 63–76). New York: Wiley.
Streufert, S., & Swezey, R. W. (1985). Simulation and related research methods in environmental psychology. In J. Singer & A. Baum (Eds.), Advances in environmental psychology (Vol. 5, pp. 99–117). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.
Streufert, S., & Swezey, R. (1986). Complexity, managers and organizations. New York: Academic.
Tennyson, R. D., & Breuer, K. (2002). Improving problem solving and creativity through use of complex-dynamic simulations. Computers in Human Behavior, 18, 650–668.
Acknowledgements
The work reported herein was partially supported by a grant from the Office of Naval Research, Award Number N000140810126. The findings and opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the positions or policies of the Office of Naval Research.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2014 Springer Science+Business Media New York
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Breuer, K., Streufert, S. (2014). Simulation Assessment of Cognitive Readiness. In: O'Neil, H., Perez, R., Baker, E. (eds) Teaching and Measuring Cognitive Readiness. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-7579-8_13
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-7579-8_13
Published:
Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA
Print ISBN: 978-1-4614-7578-1
Online ISBN: 978-1-4614-7579-8
eBook Packages: Humanities, Social Sciences and LawEducation (R0)