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Liliane Wenger

Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin

Laufende Projekte

Project management “SpielPolitik!”

The “SpielPolitik!” simulation game helps participating classes and teachers at lower secondary level to get to know the process of consultation and decision-making in a theoretical and practical way using the example of launching a “popular initiative”.

Abgeschlossene Projekte

Scientific study accompanying the simulation game “SpielPolitik!”

Simulation games in political education are expected to be highly effective for learning. Simulation games provide a space for experimentation in negotiation processes, compromise-finding, and voting. Positive findings regarding the effectiveness of simulation games for political learning at secondary levels have been found with regard to knowledge, but little is known about the quality of debates. The planned accompanying scientific study aims to record the gains in knowledge and skills within the framework of a longitudinal study (pre-/post-/and possibly follow-up). A particular concern is to record the quality of argumentation and debating demonstrated in parliamentary group and committee meetings as well as in National Council debates in collaboration with the teachers involved and to jointly reflect on teaching support strategies. The data collection includes video recordings and observation protocols as well as a questionnaire to assess students’ knowledge and interest. In conjunction with each other, these insights also allow conclusions to be drawn about the learning effectiveness of the simulation game. The findings will be used, firstly, to ensure the quality of the simulation game “SpielPolitik!” (Play Politics!) and, secondly, to provide insight into the long-term effectiveness of simulation games in political education. Findings on the long-term effectiveness of educational offerings in political education are a major research desideratum both internationally and nationally. Secondly, sample videos on debating and scientific findings will be made available for teacher training and continuing education.

Basic knowledge test Canton of Zurich

A basic knowledge test with 500 test items for naturalization candidates is being developed for the canton of Zurich.