The Role of Simulation in Social Education

Abstract

Scientists have shown that the development of complex ways of representing the environment is an important element in the psychological development of the individual. It is argued that there is an analogous development of forms of representation in society and that simulation models are a direct result of this development. Simulation is therefore seen as occupying a central role in future educational methods.

A project is described which sought to explore a new form of game using a model social system. This is called “Ecogame” and involved an on‐line interaction with a dynamic computerised model economy.

Finally some important research areas are listed.