Olympics Under Fire: Experiential Learning in Strategic Persuasion and Negotiation Skills

Simulations have proven effective in creating an authentic and experiential learning environment for practicing communication skills. However, more simulations based on real-life events can be conceptualized to engage and immerse students in business and social scenarios. This article presents a simulation based on the Olympics, where teams take on the roles of various stakeholders such as citizen groups, environmentalists, government representatives, sponsors, and others, negotiating the feasibility and environmental impact of organizing such large-scale events. The students learned and honed their strategic persuasion and negotiation skills during the simulation. Limitations and areas for improvement of the simulation are also discussed.