Using a Simulation Game to Teach the Concept of ERP

Abstract

For decades, research has shown how the use of simulations can make a positive impact on student learning. Simulations have the potential to engage students in a higher level of learning that allows understanding of concepts as opposed to rote learning where students “delete” concepts from their brains as soon as they have completed related assessment activities. Simulations are among the most often used pedagogies in industry and government. While the simulations that are used in industry can be much more complex than those integrated into the curriculum, simulations can be extended to student instruction with careful curriculum development. Because undergraduate students have little to no business experience, it can be difficult to understand the concept of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Additionally, post-secondary environments may not have the funding needed to support an ERP for curricular reasons. A simulation game, such as Lemonade Tycoon, can engage students in learning about different modules included in ERP systems along with the concepts of CRM. This simulation or strategy game allows students to manage their own lemonade stand and are responsible for paying rent, hiring staff, purchasing assets and ingredients, manufacturing the product, and collecting customer feedback. These tasks dovetail with several modules included within an ERP such as Manufacturing, Financials, Human Resources, and Sales and Marketing. The use of a simulation in the classroom validates the importance of how information systems are critical to everyone within an organization, not just the IT staff, while involving the students in their own learning.