Playful experience of business practice: Business simulation game for first-year students 

Leading fictitious companies to success

During the five rounds of the game, the first-semester students from HNU and the cooperative study programme with Ulm University of Applied Sciences (THU) analysed the key business figures of fictitious companies for the sale of electric scooters and then made decisions aimed at maximizing profits and surviving the competition. For the first time, the students submitted their decisions digitally.

The groups brought together students from different degree programs. This allowed them to make contact with fellow students from outside their own degree course and benefit from different perspectives and previous experience. Prof. Dr. Marlon Füller, Head of the Institute for Risk & Resource Management at HNU, also emphasizes this added value: “The business simulation game enables our new students to network directly at the start of their studies, get to know each other intensively and gain initial insights into the field of study.” A team of student assistants supervised and supported the first semester students during the game rounds. 

Award ceremony for the teams with the highest turnover

At the end of the two-day business simulation, an award ceremony was held in the lecture hall. The teams that achieved the highest turnover were rewarded with prizes, such as vouchers for joint activities. Professors Dr Barbara Dannenmann, Dr Stefan Distel and Dr Marlon Füller from the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics were responsible for the organization and implementation of the business game.

Participation in the business simulation is compulsory for all first-semester students on the Bachelor's degree courses, with the exception of the Physician Assistant course. Prof. Dr. Stefan Distel sums up: “In their role as company directors, the students were introduced to responsible entrepreneurial action. The business game is an example of the high value placed on practical orientation at HNU right from the start of the course.”

Contact:

Prof. Dr. Barbara Dannenmann

Prof. Dr. Stefan Distel

Prof. Dr. Marlon Füller