The Power of Simulation Games

We are pioneers in the design and facilitation of learning through simulation-games. The great Garry Shirts's Inventory of Hunches exemplifies why believe in the power of games and simulations:

  1. Maybe simulation games are motivators,

  2. Maybe a simulation experience leads to more relevant inquiry,

  3. Maybe simulations give participants a more integrated view of the ways of people,

  4. Maybe participants learn decision-making, resource allocation, communication, andother skills,

  5. Maybe simulations affect attitudes,

  6. Maybe simulations provide participants with explicit, experiential, gut-level referenceabout ideas,

  7. Maybe simulations act as an information retrieval device, since people know morethan they think they know,

  8. Maybe participants learn form and content of the model which lies behind thesimulation,

  9. Maybe the main importance is the effect on the social setting in which the learningtakes place, and

  10. Maybe simulations lead to personal growth.

What is NASAGA? In Two Minutes

What is NASAGA?

The North American Simulation and Gaming Association (NASAGA) is a community of practitioners using play as a means to bring about change. NASAGA members are educators, trainers, facilitators, and consultants. We work in companies, schools, government agencies, and nonprofits across North America. And we share a common belief that games allow individuals to create a shared space opening up new paths for communication, exploration, transformation, and problem solving.

The highlight of the year is our annual conference, when we come together to share ideas, learn from one another, and, most of all, to have fun. In keeping with our ethos, you’ll find no powerpoints and lectures here. These conferences are all about learning through play and interaction. We invite all who share our belief in the transformative power of games to join us. There is always space at the table.

Join NASAGA!

Everyone can play at NASAGA! Just add your name to our mailing list or join for one year and get involved:

  • Attend our next conference to gain inspiration and meet other NASAGA members.

  • Present at our conference to share your expertise or experiment with a new idea.

  • Participate in our discussion groups for quick tips and problem-solving tricks.

  • Tell your colleagues about NASAGA to make the world of learning a better place!

Our History

The North American Simulation and Gaming Association (NASAGA) dates back to 1962. Originally founded as the East Coast War Games Council, the original organization was devoted to war games. The name of the organization was changed to the National Gaming Council in 1968 as the emphasis of the organization had shifted Toward business and economic gaming. The name was changed again in 1975 to the North American Simulation and Gaming Association and the organization continues to meet under this name today. The 2012 NASAGA conference, held in Columbus Ohio, was billed as its 50th anniversary meeting which dates back to the organization beginnings in 1962.

Our Members

NASAGA draws its talented membership from across a wide spectrum of the educational field.  Members work across the globe in businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions.  We are…

  • Teachers

  • University Professors

  • Instructional Designers

  • Game Designers

  • Facilitators

  • Speakers

  • Performance Improvement Specialists

  • Consultants

  • Corporate Trainers