E. Mikhaylenko¹ , K. Muratshina¹

¹Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, Russian Federation

Abstract:

Simulations are recognized as a valued instrument in teaching practices, both in natural sciences and in social sciences, because of their use in helping develop a large number of skills. In international studies, simulation events of of various scales are held, e. g. Model United Nations (MUN). However, a common feature characterizing the majority of teaching and training simulation is the existence of a time limit. The Ural Federal University (UrFU) International Relations Department was the first in Russia to introduce long-term simulation into the curriculum in the framework of a course named "Diplomatic Practice". The aim of this paper is to analyse the impact of using a semester-long simulation course as an innovative teaching method in the International Relations curriculum. We regard simulation as a complex of teaching techniques, allowing the students to attain the necessary competences and to develop extensive expertise in multilateral diplomacy. The semester-long course simulation is formed by lectures and seminars, with the latter organized as simulation. The course is run entirely in English. While lectures provide the necessary theoretical background, seminars are integrated with one topic, depending on the current international situation, e. g., in autumn 2016 the topic was the United Nations discussion on the issue of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO).