Examining the Relationship Between Mental Workload, Learning Outcomes and Acceptance in a Process-Improvement Simulation Game

Bibliographic Data

ID21629872
AuthorsChristoph Szedlak (0000-0001-9794-0899, University of Applied Science Koblenz, Germany, corresponding author), Bert Leyendecker (University of Applied Science Koblenz, Germany)
Year2025
Volume56
Issue3
Pages261-288
Publication date2025-06-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueSimulation & Gaming (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1046-8781 • E-ISSN: 1552-826X
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/10468781241313202
OpenAlexW4407363988
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited33

This study explores the impact of process optimizations in business simulation games on learning outcomes, mental workload, and the acceptance of process improvements. A business simulation game was executed in two rounds: an initial baseline round and a subsequent round featuring process optimizations. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and NASA TLX were employed to measure performance and perceived mental workload, respectively. Results indicate that process optimizations led to improvements in performance metrics such as lead-time and throughput, and mental workload significantly influenced both short-term learning outcomes and the readiness to implement process optimizations. The study emphasizes the importance of considering mental workload in the design of simulation games to enhance learning outcomes and practical application of improvements. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of more effective business simulation games in vocational education

Mental model · Workload · Applied Psychology · Complex Systems and Decision Making · Computer Science · Human Resource Development and Performance Evaluation · Human-Automation Interaction and Safety · Psychology · Social Psychology

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Open DOIOpen Access