Investigating Student Perceptions of Knowledge Acquisition within a Role-Play Simulation of the Convention on Biological Diversity

Abstract

This article investigates the particular mechanisms through which a role-play simulation impacts student perceptions of knowledge acquisition. Longitudinal data were mobilized in the form of quantitative and qualitative surveys to examine whether the simulation succeeded in increasing knowledge around both content and skills. It then delves deeper into the relationship between simulations and knowledge transmission by exploring the role of online technologies and stakeholder choice as mediators. This analysis reveals two major insights: (1) the importance of thoughtfully embedding the simulation within the overarching logic of the course itself, and (2) the potential contribution of online technologies to enhancing student knowledge acquisition.

Key Words:

• role-play simulation
• knowledge acquisition
• blended learning
• Convention on Biological Diversity

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Matthew A. Schnurr

Matthew A. Schnurr is associate professor in the Department of International Development Studies at Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. His research and teaching interests revolve around questions of agricultural development and food rights, with a geographical focus on sub-Saharan Africa.

Elizabeth M. De Santo

Elizabeth M. De Santo is assistant professor of environmental studies in the Department of Earth and Environment at Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA. Her teaching and research focus on environmental governance, marine biodiversity conservation, and improving the science-policy interface.

Amanda D. Green

Amanda D. Green is a Ph.D. student in psychology/neuroscience at Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Her research and teaching interests are focused on the role of early life stressors on later neuropsychiatric disorders and science education and outreach.

Alanna Taylor

Alanna Taylor is a master’s student in the Department of International Development Studies at Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Her research explores the implications of foreign direct investment in farmland on water resource management and water security in Tanzania.