A web-based project management game for computer-assisted instruction

Simulation games are a proven technology to enhance and supplement education and training in construction management. Integration of simulation games into the civil engineering curriculum helps bridge the gap between classroom education and field practice, a long-standing problem with the construction education. This paper summarizes a research project called "SimSite .NET" undergoing in the University of British Columbia which addresses this problem by designing an online platform where intelligent virtual projects are hosted for game playing. The users can remotely access an online virtual project to browse through the project documentation, plan the project, as well as implement the project in consecutive time periods. Application of "SimSite .NET" demonstrated that such "learning by example" process is both effective and efficient in enhancing the classroom learning effects and integrating fragmented knowledge learned from different construction management courses.