How to Implement an Online Simulation into My Course?

The Rise of Online Simulations in Education

Online simulations are fundamental to modern teaching methods, changing how instructors engage students and present content. As digital natives, today’s students—especially those from Generation Z—expect learning experiences that are interactive, flexible, and connected to real-world situations. This shift in expectations is encouraging more educators to include online simulations in their curricula, recognizing the unique advantages these tools provide for both students and instructors.

FLIGBY is a recognized player in this field, chosen by universities worldwide mainly because of its innovative, award-winning game results assessment features. Its advanced approach to simulation-based learning allows educators to build immersive experiences that combine engagement with solid, data-driven evaluation.

Why Instructors Are Embracing Online Simulations

1. Meeting Student Expectations for Engagement and Flexibility

Students today seek engaging activities that go beyond traditional lectures and static assignments. Online simulations immerse learners in dynamic, interactive environments where they can experiment, make decisions, and see the consequences of their actions in real time. This hands-on approach not only increases motivation but also enhances understanding by linking theory to practice.

Another key expectation is self-paced learning. Online simulations enable students to move at their own speed, revisit difficult concepts, and practice skills as often as needed. This flexibility is particularly helpful in diverse classrooms, where students may have different backgrounds and learning styles.

2. Ensuring Fair and Transparent Grading

One of the students’ main concerns is fair grading. Online simulations usually include assessment tools that measure performance accurately, minimizing bias. Automated feedback and clear scoring guidelines help students see how their actions influence their results, encouraging a sense of ownership and responsibility in their learning.

3. Giving Instructors Greater Control and Encouraging Innovation

For instructors, online simulations provide greater control over the learning process. They can track student progress in real time, identify areas where students struggle, and adjust support accordingly. This data-driven method allows for more targeted interventions and helps make sure no student is left behind.

Moreover, integrating simulations makes classes more popular and attractive. By adopting these tools, instructors position themselves at the forefront of educational innovation, enhancing their reputation and the appeal of their courses.

Top Three Reasons to Use FLIGBY in Your Academic Class

How Much Does it Cost to Use a Simulation in my Class?

When considering the integration of online simulations into your curriculum, it’s natural to wonder about the costs involved. Although these tools are sophisticated software solutions that require a significant investment in content development and technology, their pricing is generally comparable to traditional academic resources—such as textbooks or case studies.
Simulations are usually priced on a “per seat” basis, with costs covered either directly by students or through the university.

Prices typically range from $35 to $150 per seat, depending on the complexity of the simulation and the level of instructional and support services offered. For instance, FLIGBY stands out with an excellent price-to-value ratio, offering its award-winning simulation experience starting at just $50 per seat. This makes it an appealing option for institutions looking for both quality and affordability.

What Are The Key Considerations When Evaluating Simulation Costs?

Online simulations represent a valuable investment in active learning, providing a modern alternative to traditional teaching tools at a comparable price. By thoughtfully considering the questions below, you can choose a solution that aligns with your instructional goals, technological environment, and budget, all while delivering exceptional learning experiences for your students.

Before deciding if a simulation is worth the investment, instructors should review the following factors to ensure it meets both budgetary and educational needs:

1. Technical Requirements – Does running the simulation require any special configuration, or can it be played on any typical computer? A simulation that runs smoothly on standard devices reduces the risk of technical barriers for students.
2. Installation or SaaS? – Does the simulation need to be installed on students’ computers, or is it a plug-and-play SaaS (Software as a Service) solution? SaaS platforms like FLIGBY usually offer greater convenience and accessibility, enabling students to get started immediately via a web browser.
3. Included Services – What services are part of the per-seat price? Find out if features for instructors, such as analytics dashboards, progress tracking, or grading tools, are included in the base fee or cost extra.
4. Support and Integration – What support does the vendor provide for curriculum integration and technical issues? High-quality support can make a big difference in the smooth implementation of a simulation, both in terms of instructional guidance and troubleshooting.
5. Student Access and Replayability – How long will students have access to the simulation? Can they replay or revisit content? Offering extended access and replay options can boost learning value and flexibility, letting students learn at their own pace.

How Long Does It Take to Implement a Simulation?

One of the main concerns instructors have about using online simulations is the time required for implementation. The process can seem overwhelming: understanding the simulation’s concept, adjusting your course structure (including assignments and grading), and possibly working with your institution’s IT department. These concerns are understandable—and, to some degree, valid—which is why it’s important to evaluate how each vendor supports new users during onboarding and integration.

What Are The Key Steps in the Implementation Process?

To make the transition as smooth as possible, here’s a typical sequence for integrating an online simulation into your course:

1. Clarify the Simulation’s Learning Outcomes – The first step is to clearly identify the skills and competencies that the simulation develops. Understanding its focus helps you assess its relevance to your subject area.
2. Align the Simulation With Course Goals – Assess how the simulation’s evaluation results align with your course’s learning objectives and intended outcomes. This alignment ensures the simulation improves—rather than complicates—your existing curriculum.
3. Understand the Student Experience – It’s important to anticipate the expectations and challenges students will encounter. Get familiar with the simulation’s user interface and flow to better support your students.
4. Embed the Simulation Into Course Structure – Next, incorporate the simulation into your curriculum, adjusting assignments, grading rubrics, and schedules as necessary. Many vendors offer sample syllabi or assignment templates to make this process easier.
5. Decide on the Level of Technical Integration – Consider whether you prefer a straightforward SaaS solution (plug and play), Single Sign-On (SSO), or more integrated Learning Management System (LMS). SaaS options typically need minimal setup, whereas LMS integration can provide greater convenience for students but may require more time.

What to Expect? Timelines and Tips

With a well-designed onboarding process—including a sample syllabus and live course-design support—the content integration can be completed in just five days.

If choosing technical integration, such as LMS or SSO, expect two to three weeks for setup and testing. This timeline largely depends on the vendor’s experience and your institution’s IT responsiveness. Ultimately, the real-time effort varies from one solution to another.

When evaluating vendors, ask about their onboarding resources, customer support, and real-world case studies. “Plug and play” solutions are ideal for reducing time and effort, so you can focus on teaching rather than troubleshooting. Understanding the actual time commitment needed is essential when selecting a simulation platform. Look for experienced vendors who provide comprehensive onboarding and support—these partners can make implementation faster, more effective, and more rewarding for both you and your students.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Online Simulations in Your Course

Adding an online simulation to your course is usually a smart choice that can make your class more appealing and popular among students. By providing engaging, hands-on learning experiences, simulations give you a clear edge over other courses, matching modern students’ expectations for interactive and meaningful education.

However, it’s important to recognize that the time and effort needed for proper integration often go beyond initial expectations. This can make the total investment—both in money and your valuable time—higher than it initially appears. Since your time is a critical resource, understanding exactly what vendors provide and how their onboarding and support services can reduce your instructional workload is essential.

Choosing a vendor with a well-designed, supportive onboarding process and “plug and play” solutions will help you maximize the benefits of simulations while reducing the challenges of implementation. This careful approach ensures that your investment results in a smoother teaching experience and a richer learning environment for your students.

By Zad Vecsey, CEO, ALEAS Group