Learning requirements analysis and validation through conceptual modeling is very hard. Experienced analysts manage to mentally picture (i.e. simulate) the future information system in their mind while analyzing and validation requirements. This skill is very hard to achieve by junior requirements engineers. Not surprisingly, computer-based simulation has been proven to be an excellent technique in assisting juniors in understanding complex systems. However, the practical use of computer-based simulation is hampered by the difficulty of swiftly generating simulations out of conceptual models and the difficulty of interpreting simulation results. This tutorial reviews the challenges in teaching conceptual modeling and model simulation, and the gains that can be obtained when using feedback-enabled simulation. The tutorial is based on a novel, award winning and scientifically proven method that boosts the learning achievements in conceptual modeling.
