On simulation as a research method - a brief note

Quite a number of engineering students conduct simulation without discussing simulation as a research method. It is definitely not enough just to describe how you carry out your simulation exercise in your dissertation project (many students did not even bother to state clearly that the simulation exercises were designed and carried out by themselves!). I provide some references for you to consider. At least, you should be aware that you need to study simulation as a research method if you are going to use it in your dissertation project. Try to pay attention to the discussion on simulation as a research method in terms of the techniques, methodologies and research philosophies involved. You need to be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of simulation as a research method as well as how it has been employed in research works, especially those that are related to your dissertation topic area. For a start, you should study a textbook on research methods and learn what it says about simulation as a research method.

I used to teach simulation using a software called Arena for the Logistics students; you could take a look at the software functitonalities of Arena to gain some understanding of simulation tools. Also refer to Arena user manual for info: http://iiesl.utk.edu/Courses/IE406%20S07/Slides/Arena%20User's%20Guide.pdf

Try to do some internet search or e-library search to learn more about simulation as a research method so as to write an informed chapter on "Research Methods" for your dissertation report. You need to examine and justify your research methods in terms of Research Methods notions. Just to explain the steps involved in performing your simulation exercise is not good enough.


An introductory reading on simulation, which is easy to read is:
Morris, C. (2003) "Chapter 21: Cutting down on queues" Quantitative Approaches in Business Studies, Prentice Hall.


Basic information (based  on Sheikh et al., 2008, Chapter 1):

1. Definition: the process of designing a model of a real system and conducting experiments with this model for the purpose of either understanding the behavior of the system or of evauating various strategies for the operation of the system
2. Three forms of models
• A scale model of the real system
• A physical model in different physical system to the real one
• A set of mathematical equations and logical relationship
3. Reasons for doing simulation
• Enables experimentation
• Allows for time control
• Enables affordable training
4. Main considerations in simulation planning
• Time-flow handling
• Behavior of the system: deterministic or stochastic; discrete or continuous change
• Change handling
• Other considerations: the objectives of the study, expected results

Related note

Extracted pages from Arena user guide [download the doc to study the details]

Note 1

Note 2:

Note 3:

Note 4:

Note 5:

Note 6

Note 7

Note 8

Note 9

Note 10

Note 11

References

1. Sheikh, A.E., Ajeeli, A.T.A. and Abu-Taieh, E.M. (2008) Simulation and Modeling: Current Technologies and Applications, IGI Publishing.
2. Berends, P. and Romme, G. (1999) "Simulation as a Research Tool in Management Studies", European Management Journal Vol. 17(6), pp. 576-583.
3. Hollocks, B.W. (2001) "Discrete-event simulation: an inquiry into user practice" Simulation Practice and Theory 8, pp. 451-471.
4. Perera, T. and Liyanage, K. (2000) "Methodology  for rapid identification and collection of input data in the simulation of manufacturing systems", Simulation and Theory 7, pp. 645-656.