Simulator-supported descriptions of complex dynamic problems: experimental results on task performance and system understanding

Research shows that people have great difficulty in understanding dynamics. Even when problem descriptions contain all the necessary information, people tend to mismanage dynamic systems. Given the increasing complexity of our modern societies, effective ways to communicate dynamics need to be identified. In this paper we explore the effectiveness of simulator-supported problem descriptions. We add an interactive simulation tool to the textual instructions of a well-tested natural-resource management task. With this tool, the dynamic aspects of the problem can be explored. In laboratory experiments, we find that simulator-supported problem presentations improve both the subjects' performance and their understanding. The analysis of mental effort data reveals that the simulator facilitates effective cognitive processing and thus allows the subjects to acquire more adequate mental representations of the task. Building on these results, we derive implications for the design of interactive learning environments and for the more general presentation of complex dynamic problems.