Operation Outbreak Inc: enhanced simulation

The Enhanced Simulation emerged from educator feedback requesting more immersive versions of Operation Outbreak that could tackle complex societal dimensions of disease response. Since launching, it has become a transformative educational experience that students reference years later as pivotal learning moments.

The role-playing structure reveals how different sectors of society experience outbreaks differently. Healthcare workers face overwhelming patient loads and supply shortages. Journalists balance speed versus accuracy whilst combating misinformation. Government officials weigh economic impacts against public health recommendations. This multi-perspective approach builds empathy and systems thinking that traditional teaching methods struggle to achieve.

The $300 ChangeX grant covers costumes and props that help students take their responsibilities seriously whilst adding excitement to the activity. Visual elements transform ordinary classrooms into command centres, press offices and emergency rooms, creating psychological investment in the scenario that enhances learning retention.

The programme is curriculum-aligned, fitting into science (NGSS), health and social studies frameworks whilst integrating civics, ethics, media literacy and decision-making under uncertainty. Teachers report that the Enhanced Simulation creates cross-disciplinary learning opportunities rare in standard curricula.

Many schools make the Enhanced Simulation an annual event, with students eagerly anticipating their turn and alumni returning to help facilitate. Some schools have expanded it into multi-day events or inter-school competitions. Discover more at Operation Outbreak: https://operationoutbreak.org/