The effectiveness of Scenario-based Learning stems from the core principles of its design. It is the ultimate “learning by doing” – presenting the Learner with the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills (content) in an authentic or realistic environment (context) with proper guidance and feedback (coaching).

We know from much research that providing a realistic context to any learning has been shown to drive higher both knowledge retention and learning transfer. The reasoning is both simple and elegant.

Knowledge retention is enhanced when context is aligned with the performance environment. Researcher Will Thalheimer has asserted that when realistic decisions are set in realistic situations within simulations, it makes it much more likely that Learners will remember what they’ve learned . He estimates these learning improvements range from 10 to 55%.

If we define “learning transfer” as the adoption of specific knowledge and skills to work performance, SBL improves this measure by helping Learners move from “concept” to “application.” This move is facilitated by both the realism of the content as well as the coaching and feedback they receive in the performance context.

Yet another reason that SBL and Simulations are so effective is their increasing popularity with today’s workforce. Effective SBL has been shown to improve Learners’ attitude toward learning which in turn leads to higher particiaption and completion rates. Generation X and Y grew up in the video game era and they find SBL, if done effectively, to be engaging, challenging and rewarding.