School's global-crisis simulation highlights value of experiential learning

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — First-year master's students in the Penn State School of International Affairs (SIA) translated theory into real-world skills during SIA's annual international crisis simulation. The exercise, which is embedded into SIA's core curriculum, is a long-standing collaboration between SIA and the U.S. Army War College (USAWC).

“I'm extremely pleased that SIA has a sustained partnership with the U.S. Army War College. The International Strategic Crisis Negotiation Exercise is central to the deepening commitment of SIA to experiential learning,” said Mitchell Smith, SIA director and professor of international affairs. “The scenario materials so thoroughly prepared by the Army War College facilitate the development of critical analysis, teamwork, negotiation, and communication skills that are at the core of our program.”

As part of the two-day simulation, first-year master’s students are assigned roles as the diplomats of various nations and non-state actors involved in a simulated, real-world conflict. A group of second-year students — having previously participated in the simulation — serve as mentors.

SIA Professor of International Affairs Larry Cata Backer coordinated the simulation as part of his course on international legal frameworks and institutions, while Professor of Practice Ambassador Andrea Canepari held the role of U.N. Special Representative, encouraging diplomacy among SIA students.

This year’s exercise simulated geopolitical tensions within the Arctic region. SIA students were divided into seven country delegations with interests in the region: Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Russia, and the United States. Each team was assigned strategic objectives to pursue throughout the exercise.

Over the years, many students have pointed to the crisis simulation as a highlight of their education at SIA — and this year’s cohort was no different. Reflecting on their experience, students emphasized the skills they developed that can be useful to their future careers.

“The simulation taught me when to compromise on certain points and when to stand firm against opposition,” said Lawson Kidd, who served as team communicator for the Canada delegation. “I’m hoping the skills I learned and used to negotiate during the simulation will lead me to making real-world change.”

The value of the simulation is not limited to future diplomats — many of the practical skills developed during the exercise can be applied to a range of global affairs-related careers.

“The simulation provides a practical exercise in communication, emphasizing how to convey ideas and policies effectively within the time allotted for bi/multi-lateral meetings,” said Fawwaz Alloughani, who was designated as the head delegate for Finland.

Fellow student Zahaab Rehman, who served as head delegate for the Russian Federation, echoed that sentiment and added that the exercise “enabled us to understand how to tackle a fast-paced situation where the stakes are quite high.”

The crisis simulation also starkly exhibits the human aspect of diplomatic negotiations — interpersonal dynamics that are familiar to professionals well beyond the scope of international diplomacy.

“I learned how tactfulness can be employed to find compromise in situations where every state has competing objectives that they are looking to accomplish,” Rehman said.

For many students, the experience is also a valuable opportunity to bond with classmates. Alloughani said that he enjoyed immersing himself in the experience and interacting with other students outside the traditional academic setting.

“It was a lot of fun getting into the role of a delegate, learning your state's interests, and navigating the international political space of the simulation to pursue our goals,” Alloughani said.

About the Penn State School of International Affairs

The Penn State School of International Affairs provides an innovative education for the next generation of global leaders. Its graduate degree programs offer the best of both worlds: smaller class sizes and hands-on training, while also providing access to all the resources of a world-class research institution. SIA is a globally engaged community and home to expert faculty who focus on practical, experiential learning to help students advance their careers in the fields of policy, diplomacy, security, development, economics, business and more. Its graduates shape policies, drive innovation and foster understanding across cultures. Learn more at the School of International Affairs website.