Learning Science for Simulation-Based Educators

Get the best return on investment. Understand how to achieve learning objectives and know whether your training application is working and delivering the intended results.

What truly makes simulations powerful? Smart, science-backed teaching.

This course is designed to help you move beyond just using simulation tools—to mastering them. You’ll discover how to apply proven learning science principles like cognitive load management, active learning, and real-world contextualisation to create simulation experiences that stick.

Whether you're upskilling a veteran workforce or training new professionals, you'll learn how to design engaging, immersive, and impactful simulations that build confidence, competence, and critical thinking.

If you're an educator, trainer, or learning designer ready to take simulation-based education to the next level, this course will show you how to bridge the gap between technology and pedagogy—and deliver training that truly makes a difference.

What will I learn?

Throughout the course, we will delve into the science behind simulation-based education, examining the pedagogical effects and strategies that best compliment this technology. By understanding how educational technology can deliver personalised learning experiences, we can better cater to this new type of audience.

Each module follows a sequence:

1. Contemporary learning science theory e.g. Cognitive Load, Deliberate Practice Theory, Social Learning, Situated Learning
2. Critical evaluation of its application across a variety of case studies

The modules culminate in a headline learning strategy assessment that justifies the use of the immersive environment to achieve the educational outcome.

By the end of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of various learning science theories and how to apply them to create impactful simulation-based educational experiences. This knowledge will empower you to design and deliver educational programs that meet the needs of today's learners and achieve greater educational outcomes.

How will I learn?

This course will be delivered 100% online through 12 self-paced modules. It will be delivered as asynchronous study and includes a cumulative completion of workplace-linked project for immediate application of skills.

Total duration of the short course is 37.5 hours across 8 weeks commencing 1st September.

Who should take this course?

Professional simulation developers, instructional designers and instructors in the fields of healthcare, civil aviation, and defence.

Learn from industry experts

Dr Gary Eves

Lecturer Master of Visualisation, Simulation and Immersive Design, UNSW Principal Technology Officer, CAE Inc.

Gary has spent 30 years working in simulation technologies and has developed and used simulation in flight (both civil and military) energy (oil and gas manufacturing), entertainment, defence, and more recently health care His doctorate is in the validation of serious game-based simulations for developing technical and non-technical skills. Professionally he has worked extensively developing novel customer solutions combining VR, AR and synthetic environments.

Qualify for Recognition of Prior Learning of 3UOC by completing our first two short courses.

Did you know this course is part of a series that can be stacked earning up to 3 units of credit? You can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and have these credits transferred, upon commencing a postgraduate program in Art & Design with the Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture.

Learn about our second short course, Immersive Technology for Simulation-Based Educators here.