Bridging the employability gap: enhancing soft skills via business gaming simulations

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to empirically test whether or not an online business simulation game (OBSG) can enhance key soft skills and self-perceived employability. Design/methodology/approach This research employed a blended learning approach to syllabus delivery. Five soft skills and self-perceived employability were measured before and after OBSG gameplay using previously validated scales and analyzed using linear mixed models. Findings Key soft skills notably teamwork, communication and problem-solving can be enhanced via online business simulations. Additionally, individual self-perceived employability was significantly improved, while time management significantly declined. Practical implications The use of OBSGs can improve soft skill development and be embedded into regular curriculum courses via blended learning. This research should inspire educators to further use technology as a way of motivating learners to actively engage in their studies and promote employability skills without sacrificing learning outcomes. Originality/value This article provides empirical validation of the benefit of OBSGs, specifically with respect to improving select employability skills so sought after by employers, thereby helping to bridge the employability skills gap.