Ask Ron Besuijen

Ron's Response:

Curiosity is the cornerstone of a problem-solving mindset. It’s about asking “why” at every opportunity—not just when something goes wrong but to understand the deeper principles at play. Simulation training nurtures this curiosity in several ways::

1. Knowledge Exploration: Operators are encouraged to go beyond procedural steps, digging into the "how" and "why" of process theory. Simulators provide a platform to test these theories in real time, offering insights into dynamic system behaviors.
2. Questioning Assumptions: After each scenario, operators can analyze their choices, reframe their mental models, and test alternative solutions. This reflective practice helps uncover blind spots and fosters adaptive thinking.
   Think back to the last time you struggled with a problem. Somewhere you made an assumption, either an incomplete mental model of the process or a piece of critical information was missed. 
3. Challenging Beliefs: Simulation training creates a safe space to challenge established practices. Operators can experiment with unconventional approaches and learn from unexpected outcomes, fostering innovation.

By cultivating curiosity, simulation training doesn’t just teach operators how to react—it inspires them to think critically, question norms, and seek better ways of doing things. The result? A growth mindset that empowers continuous learning and improvement.

In the posts that follow, we’ll dive deeper into the remaining perspectives, illustrating how simulation training transforms how operators approach challenges. Together, these elements foster growth, build expertise, and enable resilience in even the most dynamic and high-pressure situations. Let’s explore how simulation training goes beyond technical skills to shape a mindset that’s ready for anything.