An Audio‐Visual Introduction to an International Politics Simulation‐Game: an Exercise in Evaluation

Abstract

As a means of introducing prospective participants to an international politics simulation‐game, conventional lectures had proved unsatisfactory. This paper describes the background to this problem and an attempt to solve it using audio‐visual media. The solution comprised an introduction to the game on videotape, which was subsequently transferred to 16 mm. film.

Evaluation methodology is discussed, drawing a distinction between “product oriented” and “learning outcome oriented” evaluation. The method used to evaluate the videotape is described, and the results interpreted to ascertain to what extent the objectives of the introduction are attained. Consideration is also given to some of the general conditions under which learning outcome evaluations appear to be more (or less) appropriate.