Six criteria are emerging as critical not just to simulations but to all successful educational experiences. Three are focused on content, and three on delivery elements. The key criteria for content are: 1. Linear content. 2. Systems of content. 3. Cyclical content. Additional criteria for delivery elements are: 4. Simulation elements that model reality. 5. Game elements that provide familiar and entertaining interactions. 6. Pedagogical (didactic) elements that ensure the students' time is spent productively.

As we understand pedagogy (#6) and linear content (#1), we first mourn that they have become so dominant, but then realize how powerful they are in concert. It is only through the interelationships of all six criteria that we begin to get results that can truly transform people.

Clark Aldrich is the co-founder of SimuLearn and the author of Learning by Doing: A Comprehensive Guide to Simulations, Computer Games, and Pedagogy in e-Learning and Other Educational Experiences and Simulations and the Future of Learning. He recently lead the international team that created SimuLearn's Virtual Leader, the first ever learning experience to follow the development cycle of a modern computer game. Virtual Leader has been featured on CNNfn, on CNet, in The New York Times, and in U.S. News and World Report, and it has been sold to some of the largest enterprises in the United States.

The simulation is currently being translated into other languages. SimuLearn became an Eduventures 100 company in 2003.

Aldrich speaks, writes, and does consulting work on e-learning issues. He authors the popular monthly "Industry Watch" column for Training magazine, and Jossey-Bass published his book Simulations and the Future of Learning, which outlines a new philosophy of immersive e-learning, in September 2003. Aldrich also co-developed, chairs, and keynotes the E-learning Supplier Summit, which is affiliated with the annual Online Learning Conference.

In February 2002, Aldrich was listed as one of the 20 people to watch in the Lifelong Learning Market Report. In 2001, the American Society of Training and Development identified him as one of nine members of Training’s New Guard. In 2000, he was chosen as one of three e-learning "gurus" by Fortune magazine and was named one of Training magazine's 16 visionaries of the industry.

Aldrich previously worked for Gartner Group, where he was the research director responsible for creating and building the company's e-learning practice. In this position he developed strategies with Global 1000 organizations, vendors, and venture capitalists and published more than 40 research notes. Prior to joining Gartner, Aldrich worked for almost 8 years at Xerox, where his responsibilities included special projects for the executive office. Aldrich earned a bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence and cognitive science from Brown University.

This presentation was recorded at Accelerating Change 2004, November 5-7, 2004. Check here for the complete Accelerating Change archives.