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WHY SIMULATIONS

The research is clear. The results are undeniable.

Experiential learning has always produced better experts than passive instruction. The question has never been whether simulations work — it's been whether you could afford to build one.

Here's what the evidence actually shows (we have a DHS-funded study to prove it), what thousands of participants have told us firsthand, and why Providence exists to make this kind of learning accessible to everyone.

DHS-Funded Research

ExpertTheory co-led a rigorous mixed-methods study with Duke University, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

97%

Reported gains in knowledge

98%

Reported gains in teamwork

88%

Said it contributed to personal development

73%

Said it shaped their career plans

CLICK HERE to read the full report!

Assessing the Benefits of Simulations and War Games for the Homeland Security Enterprise Workforce

Schanzer, Gartenstein-Ross, Sperling, Lee, Johanson & Ross — Duke University & ExpertTheory — Published by NCITE, a DHS Center of Excellence

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Tested across the world's most demanding learning environments.

ExpertTheory has designed and facilitated simulations for government clients, leading universities, think tanks, and private sector organizations. Every engagement sharpens our methodology and informs how we build Providence.

2025 Business Audience Game Award — Defence Simulation Education & Training Conference

Providence was recognized by DSET — the premier conference for defence simulation, education, and training — for its innovation and effectiveness in supporting high-level training and engagement objectives.

Simulations don't just teach people things. They change how people think.

Decision-making under pressure

Participants learn to act on incomplete information — weighing tradeoffs, managing competing priorities, and adapting when the world changes mid-turn.

Causal and systems thinking

Players develop the ability to anticipate second and third order effects — a skill that doesn't emerge from reading, only from making decisions and living with the results.

Perspective-taking and negotiation

Playing as an entity other than yourself — navigating competing interests and negotiating under pressure — builds the empathy and strategic insight that defines expert judgment.

"Best inter-agency training I have had in the 10 years I have worked with the U.S. Government."

American University — Spring 2021

T"he game did an amazing job illustrating the complexities of real-world diplomacy. Studying it in a classroom is completely different from applying those skills under pressure."

University of Southern California — Spring 2025

"The course has allowed me to develop leadership and delegation skills and has helped me develop a form of confidence and a skill set that I think can translate well into the real world."

Duke University — Spring 2024

"Induces one to consider issues from an entirely different perspective. Incredibly valuable for broadening
perspectives... should be used by every institution that prepares people for policy-making."

Johns Hopkins University— Winter 2024