Large Group Enactment

With this approach, the virtual gaming simulation is enacted in a large group of ten to thirty learners. It can be enacted in two ways: with the entire group playing the virtual simulation and debriefing together, or with the group breaking into smaller groups for debriefing. Typically, educators show the virtual simulation on a large screen or with screen sharing capabilities and stop at each decision point to ask questions. This approach encourages problem-solving and critical thinking from the group as they work through the scenario together. An advantage of this format is that it allows for a rich discussion of different perceptions of the client scenario and decisions, and builds teamwork and conflict management skills (Verkuyl et al., 2020).

The disadvantage or challenge with the large group enactment is creating a psychologically safe environment in which all learners feel free to engage in the experience. It is critical to make sure learners are aware, right from the start, that making mistakes is how learning occurs. One way to mitigate this challenge is to use audience polling systems for decision- making during the virtual simulations. Another option is to mix the small and large group formats. The large group is initially divided into groups of two to three learners who complete the virtual simulation together. After they enact the simulation, they come together as a large group to debrief. The result is a large group whose members have taken different pathways through the virtual simulation allowing for a rich debrief.

Expert’s Corner: Group Enactment

When facilitating a group to work through a virtual simulation, each decision point becomes an opportunity for reflection and debrief. Since the content has been debriefed, the post virtual simulation debrief can take a different focus such as teamwork and conflict management during the group decision making.