“I have included SchoolSims educational simulations to support graduate instruction in several different principal and superintendent preparation programs. School leaders were surveyed after participating in four or more educational simulations. We found a unanimously positive perception from participants regarding their preparedness for leadership. Overall, the school leaders reported increased confidence to handle real-life situations after engaging in the simulations and a deeper perspective to think critically about issues they will be presented with in the field.” – Dr. David De Jong, Chair of Educational Leader at The University of South Dakota
Manufacture Experience for Current and Aspiring School Leaders
Simulations provide an opportunity to practice critical thinking in a safe space. Participants face high-stakes situations and cope with the consequences of their decisions without real-life implications. This experience builds confidence and improves judgment.
Essentially Accelerate Growth Time for Current and Aspiring School Leaders
Simulations enable participants to gain experience dealing with authentic challenges before actual situations occur. By playing simulations multiple times, learners can try different routes and realize the consequences of each choice so they can draw on that knowledge when faced with similar issues in real-life.
Build Principal Pipelines and Improve School Leader Retention
Learning by doing has proven to be the most effective form of training. Participants practice decision making and are given real-time feedback to understand what went wrong and how they can improve. Having the opportunity to safely learn from mistakes improves engagement and knowledge retention.
Promote Peer-to-Peer Learning Opportunities
Simulations provide opportunities for discourse among participants – during and after each simulation. These conversations compel learners to understand not just the “how” but also the “why” and often reveal biases and uncover areas of improvement.