Experience-based learning is becoming increasingly important in organizational development - especially when it comes to teaching agile principles. One method that is effective here is the use of simulations and games. In realistic scenarios, teams experiment with working models, testing the setting of work-in-progress limits or the effect of T-shaped competencies and then reflecting on their decisions. In a protected learning environment, individual and organizational behaviour patterns can be appraised and re-evaluated. For managers in particular, this opens up a perspective beyond PowerPoint - a path that appeals to intuition and cognition in equal measure.
In this episode, I talk to Andreas Wübbeke and Johanna Maduch about experience-based learning through simulations and games. Instead of gray theory, teams experience the mechanisms of agile working methods first-hand. There is no discussion about what a WIP limit could achieve - you can feel it directly in the game. This provides aha moments, not only for students, but also for management.
"Once you have experienced the mechanisms yourself, the knowledge is much better anchored." - Andreas Wübbeke, Johanna Maduch
Andreas Wübbeke has been Professor of Software Engineering at the Department of Electrical Engineering at the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences in Soest since mid-2022. He previously worked as Head of the E/E Data Management segment at CLAAS E-Systems in Dissen a.T.w. and as Head of Quality Assurance R&D at Wincor Nixdorf. As a doctor of computer science at the Chair of Databases and Information Systems, he is particularly interested in the agile transformation of companies and the teaching of agile methods in this context.
Johanna Maduch completed her Master of Engineering in "Digital Technologies" in Soest in 2024 and now works as an IT consultant. In her master's thesis, she combined the knowledge from her bachelor's degree in "Design Management and Project Management" and focused on agile project management.
Learning with simulations is an innovative method that enables learners to acquire knowledge through practical experience. It creates realistic environments where complex concepts can be experienced, tested, and understood faster than with traditional methods.
In this article, you will explore:
Dive into the world of simulation-based learning — and see how it can transform the way we learn.
Simulations are interactive models that let learners experience and understand complex concepts in a controlled environment. They bridge theory and practice by offering hands-on applications and fostering experiential learning.
One example is the Okaloa Flow Lab — a simulation environment based on agile project management principles. Participants work through realistic scenarios to grasp team dynamics and overcome challenges in a safe setting. By applying methods from sports training the Flow Lab enhances tactile learning and supports intuitive understanding.
The structure of a simulation shapes the learning experience. Classic simulations often rely on rigid frameworks, while agile simulations focus on flexibility and adaptability. In agile formats, time constraints (timeboxing) are often used to increase the reaction speed of teams and optimize collaboration. These approaches help to ensure that learners not only acquire knowledge, but also learn how to apply it in real projects. An example of such an application is the role of the test manager in agile projects, who plays a crucial role in ensuring quality and supporting efficient team collaboration.
Learning with simulations offers numerous advantages that increase knowledge retention compared to traditional methods:
Interactive and hands-on learning anchors new knowledge more deeply. Learners can apply theoretical knowledge directly in the simulation, which strengthens memory.
Haptic learning plays a crucial role in fostering an intuitive understanding of complex concepts. By actively interacting with materials or digital tools, learners develop a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind the theories.
Simulation-based learning methods allow participants to experience real-life scenarios in a low-risk environment. This leads to higher motivation and engagement as learners can immediately see and learn from the consequences of their decisions.
These approaches not only make learning more effective, but also create a foundation for sustainable development. These skills are particularly valuable in times of complexity and uncertainty.
The integration of agile methods into the design of simulation games opens up new dimensions of learning. Agile approaches promote flexibility and adaptability, which are crucial for success in dynamic learning environments. An Agile Coach can support this by advising teams and managers on agility, communication and process optimization.
The ability of participants to work together and solve problems in a simulated environment enables a deep understanding of agile practices. Conflicts or challenges within the team can be seen as valuable learning opportunities.
In simulations ideas can be tested in a safe environment without any real consequences. This active exploration builds confidence in trying new approaches and sharpens team responsiveness. By working through unpredictable scenarios, participants internalize the core of agile project management: reacting flexibly to change, making quick decisions, and strengthening collective problem-solving skills.
There are several steps involved in running an effective simulation game to ensure that the learning objectives are met. Key elements that make a simulation effective include:
These form the basic framework of the game, enabling interactions between participants and encouraging strategic thinking. The choice of the game mechanics directly shapes team dynamics and influences how the game unfolds.
Good interaction within teams is crucial. Players need to communicate, collaborate and adapt their strategies to succeed in the game.
A crucial part of simulation game design is the retrospective analysis. After the simulation, participants review the experience, gather feedback, and reflect on key insights. This process involves:
This continuous improvement ensures that each new game is more effective than the last. Such analyses not only help to identify specific problems, but also to generate new ideas for the further development of the game.
Simulations enable an interactive learning environment, but this also brings challenges.
Conflicts within the team can arise during simulations, often due to differing perspectives or strategies. Such disputes directly impact communication and collaboration, influencing the overall learning experience. An open discussion climate is crucial to resolve these conflicts in a safe environment.
Managers need to understand the different roles and dynamics within their teams to ensure the success of simulation-based learning. A solid understanding of agile practices, enables managers to better support their teams, foster individual development, and drive overall performance improvements.
Proactively addressing conflicts and sharpening role awareness deepens the understanding of how teams operate and evolve in simulations. To develop in this context, AI Skills are of great importance for testers, especially for testers in agile environments, where flexibility, speed, and adaptability are essential.
Industrial applications of simulations show that companies can benefit from practical learning experiences in safe environments. Implementing simulation-based learning methods enables organizations to master complex challenges and develop tailored solutions across various industries, such as:
Vehicle manufacturers use simulations to optimize production processes. By analyzing bottlenecks, they make adjustments that increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Hospitals use simulations to train for emergency scenarios. Doctors and nursing staff practice handling critical situations, leading to significant improvements in response times during real emergencies.
Logistics companies use simulations to improve supply chain management. By testing different scenarios, they identify bottlenecks and develop strategies to minimize delays.
These examples show how simulations translate complex theories into practical solutions across industries. By applying what they learn under realistic conditions, teams can sharpen their collaboration, improve decision-making under pressure, and succeed in real-world scenarios.
Simulation games offer an innovative platform for learning complex concepts in a safe, risk-free environment. In the future, they will play an even greater role in modern education by:
These advances directly strengthen knowledge transfer, improve team coordination and build practical problem-solving skills. Platforms like the Okaloa Flow Labs show that embedding agile principles in simulations is beneficial for learning environments that prepare teams for real-world challenges.
Simulations are interactive learning environments that enable participants to experience practical applications of knowledge in realistic scenarios. One example of an effective learning simulation is the Okaloa Flow Lab.
Learning with simulations improves knowledge retention as it promotes haptic learning and enables an intuitive understanding of complex concepts. Simulation-based methods also offer practical training opportunities.
Agile methods are integrated into the design of simulation games to increase the flexibility and adaptability of learning processes. Team dynamics play a crucial role in the success of these learning methods.
Central elements of an effective simulation include clear game mechanics and the promotion of team interaction. In addition, retrospective analysis is important for the continuous improvement of future games.
Challenges may include team conflicts that arise during simulations and hinder the learning process. A deep understanding of team roles is essential to benefit from simulation-based learning.
In industry, simulations are used to identify specific problems and test customized solutions in a safe environment before applying them in real-world settings to achieve better results.