BENEFITS:

Can easily model complex systems.

Saves money by eliminating, or minimizing, required investment in expensive hardware.

Saves time by providing necessary components within the simulation software.

Can be easily modified to allow student try different scenarios.

Allows "safe" experimentation.

Game structure of some simulations helps stimulate interest for some users.

DRAWBACKS:

May be time consuming to learn to operate the software.

May be additionally difficult for users not familiar with using computers.

Subject to problems typical of computer operation such as "crashing," "locking up," internal conflicts, and computer hardware failure.

Inadequate support for software.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Student must understand how the simulation relates to reality.

Start with hands-on activity, then simulate the real-world activity with the simulation software.

EXAMPLE 1:

Electronics Workbench Simulation Software for creating and simulating Electronic Circuits.

Allows student to model operation of a circuit and work out the "bugs" before constructing the circuit with physical components.  Click here to see my MC241 Students using Electronics Workbench.

Side Note: The example shown here is a simulation of a partial Bridge Rectifier Circuit. The simulated Oscilloscope is show with the input and output waveforms displayed.

EXAMPLE 2:

AutoCAD Computer Aided Design Software.

Allows student to simulate a design before the physical construction process begins.

Side Note: The drawing shown in this example is the sub-woofer enclosure for the stereo system installed in Jason’s truck, Phantazm, and represents over 2 months worth of design time prior to construction. The enclosure holds sixteen 15inch subwoofers.

EXAMPLE 3:

Train Dispatcher Simulation Software.

Can be used to instruct students in a Railway Science program the art of train dispatching before making them responsible for actual dispatching in a real life situation where there decisions can save or cost lives and equipment.

Side Note: Air Traffic Controllers can be trained, to a degree, by similar simulations.