Authors: Maria Georgakalou, Charoula Ntelopoulou, Mary Kagiavi

Title: Role-Playing Games and managerial scenarios in module “DEO45 - Business, New Technologies and Entrepreneurship” in open and distance education in the Hellenic Open University

Abstract

After having studied how adult learners are taught, many theoretical scholars tend to agree that trainees prefer the use experiential methods that enhance their active involvement and creativity. One of the main techniques promoting this active participation is role playing games. We used role playing games and managerial scenarios in module “DEO45 - Business, New Technologies and Entrepreneurship” in open and distance education in the Hellenic Open University in the last (out of five) contact session, when students are expected to have studied the educational material and to have written four (4) assignments. They are expected to play roles, in order to make sure that they have deeply comprehended new technological trends and management information systems and follow the learning outcomes of the educational material (subjects covered: The Framework for e-Business, E-Commerce and Management of Information Systems). We tried to enhance the teaching of the module, by using the experimental research method in order to observe group behaviour and individual behaviour. The experiment took place twice, one each year, where the same three scenarios were repeated, with increased students’ involvement and very enthusiastic reactions, since all groups seemed to enjoy the innovative idea of playing roles relevant to their course.