Keeping it Real: Integrating Practitioners in a Public Relations Crisis Simulation

The positive effects of simulation-based learning are widely acknowledged by educationalists, including the development of critical thinking, team working and decision-making skills (e.g. Alinier et al., 2006; Sportsman, et al, 2011). Simulations therefore offer an effective means by which to cultivate active learning which not only entails student involvement via participation but also a “learner-focused approach that is based upon changing learners’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes” (Madsen, 2007:12). Within the field of public relations simulations are a well-established tool for the training of top management and employers in crisis communication and management. The benefits of immersive crisis simulations for public relations students have not been lost to higher education professionals and a growing number of academic papers have explored their use as a pedagogical tool, such as the importance of simulation debriefing (Savoldelli et al., 2006) as well as the use of interactive and digital tools (Foote, 2013).

Whilst it is widely recognised that a key strength of simulation-based learning is the application of discipline-specific theories and concepts that can be transferred to a professional setting, this topic is surprisingly underdeveloped within the context of public relations education research. Although studies such as Olson (2012) have alluded to the optional but desirable contribution of role players in crisis simulations there is a lack of research concerning the deployment of practitioners to enhance simulation-based learning. This paper accordingly explores the utilisation and integration of public relations practitioners, representing the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, during a crisis simulation completed by final year undergraduate students. In so doing this paper investigates the practical and pedagogical challenges and opportunities presented by the deployment of such practitioners as assessors during a crisis simulation.