Poorly designed tutorials are sometimes criticized as little more than electronic page turners. Well-designed programs use branching, context sensitive feedback, and many other features that can promote better learning. Simulations Simulations are imitations of real or in some cases imaginary systems or phenomena. In most cases, they are simplified representations of the real things. They allow learners to interact with phenomena that are often too difficult, too dangerous, too time-consuming, or too expensive for actual study.
Learners are free to manipulate variables in complex systems in safe and reproducible ways.
Most experts agree that simulations represent one of the most effective uses of computer resources and that they can foster higher order thinking skills. The distinguishing characteristic of a game is the specification of a goal or goals and some sort of rules of play, often involving application of knowledge or rules, to achieve the goal. Games are usually employed to increase learners' motivation. However, there is a fairly large group of software that involves problem-solving but does not fit neatly into another category. In general, these programs are designed to give students experience with a variety of problem and solution approaches and, thereby, increase student confidence and general problem-solving facility.