Virtual catchments, real learning: Role-play game to study forest-water interactions

Brief report

Abstract

Serious role-play games enable experiential learning through exploring stakeholder perspectives and negotiating sustainable solutions. This brief report presents the testing of a low-tech role-play game simulating forest-water interactions and land management on a catchment scale. The game was integrated into a Master’s degree programme (one group, n = 15) at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, involving the development and evaluation of project proposals from the perspective of various stakeholders. Immediate and written student feedback (n = 7) highlighted enhanced understanding of integrated resource management, the value of perspective-taking, and the importance of argumentation and compromise. While students acknowledged biases and suggested design improvements, the role-play format was positively evaluated as an engaging and realistic tool. This exploratory case illustrates the feasibility of a role-play format to complement traditional teaching and bolster critical thinking. Given the small, single-cohort design and absence of specific learning measures, the results do not lend themselves to generalisation.

Keywords: serious games; forestry education; water management; stakeholder perspectives; student feedback