The Effect of Simulation Games in Improving Grade XII Students’ Academic Performance in Economics: An Action Research

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of simulation games as an intervention strategy in the teaching-learning process to enhance performance of grade XII students in economics. The study adopted a mixed method research approach. A total of 27 (14 girls and 13 boys) grade XII students from one of the higher secondary schools participated in the study. The students were selected through non-probability convenient sampling techniques. The data sources include students class test score, narratives from the classroom observations and survey data. The findings revealed that the students were very positive about the use of simulation games as a classroom pedagogy. Simulation games help students comprehend concepts, ideas, and hypotheses easily besides making teaching-learning interesting, enjoyable, and fun as evident from the increase in mean marks in the class test 2 and high mean average score of 4.5 in the survey rating. However, the study also cautions that the simulation games are time-consuming and teachers need more time and effort to prepare and implement in the class.