In today’s fast‑moving classroom, high school business courses need more than textbooks and lectures. They must deliver active, immersive experiences that prepare students for work, study and entrepreneurship. That’s where simulation‑based learning and educational simulations become transformational. One of the most compelling tools in this space is the business simulation game, and at the heart of this evolution is the real‑world success of MikesBikes Introduction.
Why Simulation‑based Learning Matters in High School Business Courses
Experiential Learning Over Passive Study
In traditional business management classes students often learn theories of strategy, marketing, accounting and operations. However, we know student learn and remember more when they become actively engaged in the content being taught.
Incorporating a business simulation game fosters deep understanding of concepts as students experience their own business experience. This allows them to take responsibility over their own learning and become personally engaged with the content.
A Real‑World Case Study
Cameron McDowell first encountered MikesBikes as a student. Now teaching a business and marketing course at Shorecrest High School (Washington, USA), Cameron uses MikesBikes as a dynamic and comprehensive capstone project that brings together all the concepts students have learned in class.
“Teaching this simulation is just as rewarding as I thought it would be,” he says. “It has made my classroom more dynamic and has completely transformed the way I teach.”
Through MikesBikes students experiment with real-world business decisions and think critically about competition, pricing strategies, and market positioning. “It allows students who want to dig deeper into business concepts”.
They must also collaborate, compare decisions, and even offer advice to their peers, creating an energetic classroom dynamic. Cameron recalls students who previously submitted low-quality work becoming more invested. One student who was disconnected from school surprised everyone by enthusiastically teaching others how to use the simulation.
To support high school learners, Cameron provides structured guidance and reflection prompts. “Reflecting on what worked and didn’t work is crucial for high school students,” he explains. He encourages students to take risks: “Try different strategies. Every approach can win if you pilot it correctly.”
Want to try MikesBikes for yourself?
MikesBikes Introduction is designed for students with no prior business knowledge or experience. This is achieved by enabling students to gradually take control over their own company. This approach makes MikesBikes one of the most widely used educational games for teaching business.