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Classroom games in economics : a quantitative assessment of the 'beer game'

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McMahon, Michael F. (2011) Classroom games in economics : a quantitative assessment of the 'beer game'. Working Paper. Coventry: University of Warwick. Dept. of Economics. Warwick economics research paper series (TWERPS), Vol.2011 (No.964).

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Abstract

Using an experiment, I compare the use of the 'Beer Distribution' classroom game with the more traditional 'chalk and talk' approach to teach students about inventories and the macroeconomy. My empirical results confirm and extend our understanding of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the use of classroom games: the game tends to improve interest and motivation on average, though some students dislike their use; the game is effective at driving home its key messages, but it may wrongly lead students to disregard other important factors; the game is inferior where facts mastery or de nitional learning is required.
Rather than an endorsement or a criticism of classroom games, the conclusion is cautionary advice on how to best make use of games within an overall course.

Item Type:

Working or Discussion Paper (Working Paper)

Subjects:

H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory
L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education

Divisions:

Faculty of Social Sciences > Economics

Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):

Macroeconomics -- Study and teaching (Higher), Inventories -- Study and teaching (Higher), Educational games

Series Name:

Warwick economics research paper series (TWERPS)

Publisher:

University of Warwick. Dept. of Economics

Place of Publication:

Coventry

Official Date:

2011

Dates:

Date	Event
2011	Published

Volume:

Vol.2011

Number:

No.964

Status:

Not Peer Reviewed

Publication Status:

Published

Access rights to Published version:

Open Access

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