Business Simulation Games for the Development of Intrinsic Motivation-Boosting Sustainability: Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: The 4th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the 2030 Agenda is supported by new educational trends that consider game-based learning as a pedagogical method in the classroom. In particular, simulation games and motivation are relevant elements since they can play a significant role in quality education. As a result, during the last few years, research into potential interventions as well as business simulation games (BSGs) for the development of intrinsic motivation (IM) in higher education have skyrocketed. However, no reviews of the interventions and outcomes in this topic have been released. Therefore, the goals of this research were (1) to analyze the relationship between the use of BSGs and the IM of students in higher education, and (2) to identify the aspects that can be promoted by the BSGs to develop IM. Methods: In accordance with PRISMA recommendations, a systematic review was carried out of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest. Results: From the 329 investigations that were initially selected, 12 studies underwent a complete assessment, in which all interventions and results were gathered and assessed. Conclusions: There was unanimity on the importance of using BSG to foster IM in higher education.