Using Simulation Based Learning to Enhance Preservice Teachers’ Understanding of the Educational Needs of Diverse Learners
Abstract: This sequential mixed-method study focused on the use of the Simulation Based Learning (SBL) tool, simSchool, as a supplement to coursework and field experiences, to explore the impact on preservice teachers’ understanding of the educational needs of diverse learners. Twenty-one simulated classroom modules were created representing six different classroom settings designed to focus on four diversity areas: socioeconomic issues, ethnicities, exceptionalities, and English as second language (ESL) students. The results from the quantitative surveys indicated statistical differences in the demographic areas of: age greater than 21, junior class status, and prior multicultural experience, from the pre-to post-survey results. The analysis of the qualitative data, as well as the data embedded within the simSchool software, suggested that the use of simSchool did increase preservice teachers’ understanding of the educational needs of diverse learners.