The Serious Side of Play: Computer Games and The Teaching of Management Concepts

This activity examines the pedagogical value of computer games in management education for those who may now be called digital natives (Raga et al, 2023), showing that they provide an effective medium for applying theoretical concepts in practice. Drawing on Kolb’s (1984) experiential learning theory, games are shown to encourage active engagement, and illustrate decision-making under bounded rationality (Simon, 1977). Computer games bridge theory and practice, transforming abstract management concepts into experiences that prepare students for contemporary organizational challenges. This presentation, using a computer game, illustrates individual versus group decision-making, planning, organizing and competition. In response to the question “Are we having fun yet?” the response is in the affirmative for these games.