Outcome-Based Use of Simulation in Agricultural Sciences: A Systematic Literature Review

Technology is increasingly being integrated into classrooms worldwide to enhance learning outcomes, and simulation technologies are becoming more popular to create realistic scenarios in controlled academic settings. However, simulation studies in agricultural education have been limited, making it difficult to assess the impact of simulation technologies on student learning. To address this literature gap, a systematic literature review of 17 articles was conducted to examine the use of simulation technology in agricultural education. The analysis revealed that simulation technologies were most used in agricultural science sub-disciplines that involve experimentation and practical application. Most studies focused on undergraduates and utilized quantitative research methods, with virtual and augmented reality being the most commonly employed types of simulation. Positive effects of simulation on learning outcomes were reported in most studies, including improved academic achievement, psychological factors such as anxiety, and tracking students’ progress. However, the technology's time-consuming nature and potential for uncomfortable physical conditions like cybersickness were identified as demerits. More rigorous standards were recommended to improve reporting procedures in agricultural education studies with simulation technologies.