Applied Economics Teaching Resources

an AAEA Journal

Agricultural and Applied Economics Association

Teaching and Educational Methods

Extending the Classroom: An Intercollegiate Strategic Management Simulation for Agribusiness Courses

Andrea Leschewski(a) and R. Brent Ross(b)
(a)South Dakota State, (b)Michigan State University

JEL Codes: JEL Codes: A22, Q13, M10
Keywords: agribusiness, digital game-based learning, intercollegiate competition, motivation, simulation, strategic management

First Published Online: March 3, 2026

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Abstract

This paper describes and analyzes an innovative intercollegiate strategic agribusiness management simulation designed to amplify the benefits of digital game-based learning (DGBL). Utilizing the Capsim Capstone 2.0 software, the project details the application and structure of competition between undergraduate teams at Michigan State University and South Dakota State University. Analysis of student survey feedback confirms that the intercollegiate format increased student interest and motivation in the simulation project. While intercollegiate competition was supported, students identified key challenges, including limited interuniversity communication, knowledge disparities due to varying course levels, and increased simulation complexity. Based on these insights, practical recommendations and lessons learned are offered for future applications, including facilitating interuniversity communication through virtual platforms and structured meetings, promoting partnerships between courses with similar student profiles, and optimizing simulation settings for clarity. This project demonstrates the strong potential of intercollegiate competition in enhancing DGBL within agricultural and applied economics courses.

About the Authors: Andrea Leschewski (corresponding author; andrea.leschewski@sdstate.edu) is an Associate Professor of Applied Economics, Ness School of Management & Economics, South Dakota State University. R. Brent Ross (rross@msu.edu) is a Professor of Food and Agribusiness Management, Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics, Michigan State University.

Acknowledgments: This research was funded by USDA NIFA Hatch Project 7002300: “Mitigation of Food and Nutrition Insecurity: An Economic Evaluation of Food Assistance and Nutrition Education Policy.” Funders had no involvement or restrictions regarding publication. No conflicts of interest are reported by study authors. This study was deemed exempt by the South Dakota State University Institutional Review Board on March 31, 2025.

Copyright is governed under Creative Commons CC BY-NC-SA

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