Evaluation of Computer Simulations for Teaching Apparel Merchandising Concepts

The goal of the research was to develop and evaluate computer simulations for teaching apparel merchandising concepts. Topics were identified in consultation with retailers. The researcher examined the effects of teaching method (com puter simulation vs. case study) and course (Profitable Merchandising Analysis and Retailing Management) on cognitive learning and attitude. Two experiments using a 2 × 2 factorial design were conducted with students (N= 73, N= 50) at a major south central university. Results of the study indicated that students did not differ significantly (p < 0.05) in cognitive learning based on teaching method, but attitudes varied according to the topic covered.