A game-based development method of experiential learning for aspiring professionals

Abstract

Contemporary workers must demonstrate strong knowledge and skills of their profession. However their so-called 21st century skills such as communication, leadership, and overall teamplay become distinctive in nowadays jobs. Teaching these often tacit skills and attitudes requires an underpinned approach. In this paper we operationalise experiential learning, using a multiplayer game to create the necessary engagement. With this consequential workshop format we created a game-based workshop in which 120 aspiring professionals participated. The results of this exploratory experiment are promising. All participants left the workshop with a clear actionable view to improve team performance. The results of the personality test that is part of the workshop yield an unexpected result. A modified version of workshop may be implemented as a training recommendation instrument for forthcoming students.