Games and simulations are increasingly used in courses on international politics. This study explores the hypothesis that games are better than simulations (as well as only reading and lectures) in introducing students to abstract concepts integral to an understanding of world politics. The study compares a two-level Prisoner's Dilemma game…

This comparative case study presents one key challenge that 2 experienced teachers faced when using simulations: control. Simulations are activities that place high demands on teachers, including the ability to anticipate pitfalls in advance, act in multiple capacities, shape the direction of the activity without unduly interfering, and to be…

This paper explains how to conduct a SALT simulation with upper division undergraduate and/or graduate students who have a limited background in international relations. Playing time is approximately four weeks. It is suggested that an introductory course devoted to reading, lectures, and discussions precede the simulation. (Author/RM)

This simulation game is designed to give the student direct experience in conflict and cooperation. This exercise, a two-person instead of a group game, combines the primary elements of simulations--role-playing with a senario and a game format in which strategies have clear outcomes for the players. (SM)

A simulation designed for an introductory college-level international politics and comparative foreign policy course is described. Regional Crisis requires student decision-maker diplomats, grouped in teams, to respond to a Middle Eastern crisis that has substantial potential for escalation. In response to an initial crisis scenario, student teams…

Describes a classroom simulation that has students role play membership in the United Nations. Students are assigned countries and through research and debate learn that country's position on international issues. The culminating activity has students participate in a mock United Nations Assembly vote. Argues that this method encourages students…

Calls for more and better teaching about the Vietnam War in secondary schools and colleges. Offers approaches to teaching about the War and presents questions designed to stimulate students' thinking. Describes the use of simulations. States that the discussion of controversial issues makes class more stimulating for both student and teacher. (KO)

This handbook is a practical guide containing background reading and classroom exercises on future studies for elementary and secondary teachers. The book begins with a rationale for future-oriented education and a discussion of the objectives of a futuristics curriculum. Part II, which comprises the major portion of the document, contains 22…

Presents a two to six day classroom simulation unit, "Survival or Starvation," designed to enhance student understanding of world problems. States that the simulation has been successfully used with fifth grade to adult groups. Provides daily instruction plans and describes several cooperative learning methods. Lists materials needed, and provides…

Designed for elementary-grade students, these resource materials provide activities which relate the global concepts of peace and interdependence to the direct experience of the child. Subunits on world food supply, world health, and the world mail system use simulation and role-playing activities to help learners see how the things that they…

Procedures for the operation of the Political-Military Exercise (PME) are detailed in this handbook as a means of involving political science students in the actual dynamics of international policy-making decisions through the PME game experience. Two basic designs for operating the simulation exercise are presented with a discussion of the format…

Describes the development and use of a geography instructional game that is based on the actual travels of U.S. Secretaries of State. Contends that analyzing the nations visited provides clues to international events and foreign policy development. Provides maps and charts detailing visits by Secretaries of State between 1866 and 1990. (CFR)

The issue of Intercom promotes an awareness of the world as a system that poses new possibilities and obligations for educators as well as policy makers. The first part includes interviews with and excerpts from the works of Denis Meadows, joint author of Limits to Growth; Mihajlo Mesarovic, co-author of Mankind at the Turning Point; Robert…

The manual consists of six easy to use simulation exercises for foreign relation classes at the secondary level. The games are designed to teach decision making skills, to sensitize students to the manner in which Americans have come to view the world, to help students understand the need to manage problems before they become too severe, and to…