Knowledge and Information Sharing Improved by Simulation Technology: A Quantitative Study

While research continues to grow in the area of facilitation, engineers continue to focus on enhancing their technical knowledge base. Training is seldom directed at increasing non-technical skills. We investigate the use of virtual facilitation based on the facilitation framework of Chris Argyris to determine if its use leads to acceptable solutions and increased trust. Simulation technology is widely used by the military. Instead of using multi-million dollar pieces of equipment to practice flight maneuvering, simulation technology is used as a substitute. Whether internal or external to the engineering arena, simulation technology can be an innovative educational tool. If simulation technology can be used to enhance the quality of decision-making in human beings, there also exists the ability to process information quickly, utilize comparable and visual processing techniques, and improve data organization, critical thinking, and problem solving skills. This study furthers research into virtual facilitation as an aid in enhancing knowledge and information sharing by improving participants' openness and interdependence.