Long-Term, Non-Computer, Communication Simulations as Course Integration Activities

This article offers a few guidelines for constructing effective simulations. It presents a sample class activity called simulated public hearing which aims to integrate the various elements of a public speaking course into a more comprehensive whole. Properly designed, simulated hearings have elements of persuasive, informative, and impromptu speaking, debate, communication ethics, group dynamics, problem-solving, interviewing, and research methods. Unlike virtual computer simulations, these simulations require real resources, institutions, and people. This is a plus, since no computer simulation can plan for all interactive eventualities. In addition, student perceptions of realism and the extent to which they feel they have learned are strongly related.