Students of Development Studies learning about modelling and simulations as a research approach in their discipline

International audienceResearchers in the social sciences are increasingly using modelling and simulation (M&S) as a research approach. They create virtual worlds to discover relations across variables, and to test theories and potential policies. We introduced this research approach to students in the department of Development Studies at our university. The goal was to investigate the way in which such students can gain meta-knowledge about M&S-based research, that is, general knowledge about its nature and rationale. We organized a seminar to introduce the research approach and illustrated it with a simulation of the behaviour of agents with varying levels of tolerance towards their out-group neighbours (based on Schelling’s segregation model). We analysed students’ interactions through a socio-cultural lens. Students were able to gain meta-knowledge about M&S-based research, which they judged as useful for their future as professionals when working on development projects