CAS Simulation Project

The CAS Project is a series of group and individual assignments conducted in parallel to the CAS IPA academic modules. The CAS Project and its component assignments are structured so as to relate all academic inputs of the teaching modules directly into a practical and highly relevant case, allowing for maximum retention of the knowledge and skills gained during the CAS.
The centerpiece of the CAS Project is a full-day simulation in which participant groups face off against each other in a complex negotiation around a contemporary multilateral issue. In this challenging real-life atmosphere, participants are required to make use of all of the knowledge and competencies gained during the course in order to successfully reach an agreement with the other sides. In preparation for this simulation, participants are required to complete a series of exercises and to author preparatory documents during the preceding semester. The choice and development of the conflict scenario, as well as the close supervision of its implementation, is the responsibility of the program management team. This close supervision is crucial for the outcome of the CAS Project; the learning outcomes depend on the participants enjoying a challenge that feels real, is exciting and, at the same time, is solvable.
The CAS Simulation Project is at first being designed for the CAS in International Policy and Advocacy, an applied program that emphasizes negotiation competencies. In this CAS, the CAS Simulation Project takes the place of the commonly-used CAS Thesis. To enable the use of the simulation in other educational offerings a shorter version will be developed in a second phase of the project. As a compact learning experience, it can be used in a broad range of courses and programs.

• Project design allows for maximum learning outcome (set structure with ample room for individual development and implementation)
• Direct application of studied concepts (deliverables as well actual simulation day)

The project application is innovative in that it provides the students with the opportunity to directly apply the concepts learned in class throughout the semester as well as during a day long, realistic negotiation simulation.

The evaluation of the feedback showed that the students would have liked to have more time to negotiate during the simulation – with the expected result of achieving a better result.

• Possible inclusion of expert opinions during negotiation simulation.
• Deliverables are well designed to prepare for simulation day.
• Plan more time for debriefing after negotiation.

• Before start of project, make sure to update material to fit real circumstances
• If applicable, adjust game (options, outcomes etc.)
• Take time to read deliverables and provide adequate feedback without steering students into certain direction.
• Project lead should be familiar with setting and content – preparation before implementation.