Simulating lobbying: A problem based learning approach to teaching interest groups

Programmes teaching public policy and administration (PPA) increasingly include dedicated modules or courses on interest groups (aka public affairs, aka government affairs aka lobbying). Despite its journalistic familiarity, the topic of lobbying includes concepts that may appear particularly abstract to students. Given the shift towards problem-based learning (PBL) approaches in PPA programmes, courses could benefit from such activities on this specific topic. Complementing other pedagogical methods, we developed a PBL activity that allows students to practically apply their newly gained knowledge on the subject through a simulation game. We found that the game was popular amongst students and helpful as a learning tool. Students left the activity feeling they can better contextualize theory and concepts. Aiming to broaden the use of such pedagogical tools in teaching government affairs, this paper provides an outline behind the games' context, its main steps, some reflections on its effectiveness, and a case example with relevant links in the annex to implement and/or adapt to different settings.