Using ICONS Simulations to Apply IR Theory to Real World Problem and issues

Session Submission Type: TLC Workshop

Session Description

ICONS (International Communication and Negotiations Simulations), based at the University of Maryland, provides students in the United States and around the world with opportunities to develop negotiation skills through online simulations of important, and often contentious, international issues. This workshop will allow participants to try out the ICONS simulation using a demonstration scenario that will focus on one current issue. In addition to the demo simulation, we will discuss important elements of the collaborative approach to developing a position, the role of research, and debriefing techniques. We will also explore ways to structure simulations to support student learning and challenge students to address often “messy” real-world problems. Participants will leave with the sample scenario that they can use in their own classrooms as well as an understanding of how to implement a scenario to support the substance of their class.

ICONS simulations embody many of the high-impact teaching and learning processes that have been shown to be beneficial to college students, especially those who have been underserved. Through the simulation, students become active participants in their own learning. By working in groups, students engage in collaborative assignments and projects as well as decision making. Communication depends on the written word, so in both the simulation and the research phase, students have a writing intensive experience. This also underscores the importance of research about the world around us, that is, “global learning.” And it can easily be integrated into a first year and/or capstone experience. As research shows, these practices can increase student engagement and contribute to student retention. In addition, ICONS uses a “flipped classroom” experiential approach, which transforms the faculty member into facilitator and encourages students to take responsibility for their learning. Other benefits of the program are that the simulation allows students to see and understand the "real world" applications of IR theories. It also allows them to view these problems from diverse national and cultural perspectives, a necessary workplace skill in our interdependent world. The faculty member can ensure that there are clear learning objectives associated with the class and the simulation, and all of these can be evaluated and assessed.

ICONS has been used successfully at the high school, community college and university levels. The beauty of the approach is that it provides a tool that can be used in a range of classes and settings to support the substance of the class. At a time when many are questioning the value added of higher education, ICONS offers students the opportunity to develop important skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom, while they are also learning important information.

The workshop will be facilitated by Joyce P. Kaufman, Emerita Professor of Political Science at Whittier College and Senior Faculty Mentor with ICONS, and Jeanette Ben Farhat, Faculty Member in the Social Science Department, Santa Rosa Junior College. Both have used ICONS in their own classes for many years. Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop to the session.

Sub Unit

• TLC at APSA

Chairs

• Joyce P. Kaufman Whittier College

• Tanya Brooke Schwarz Pi Sigma Alpha

• Bennett Grubbs APSA

Presenter

• Jeanette BenFarhat Santa Rosa Junior College