MBA programmes are unique amongst business masters programmes in that, rather than focusing on learning academic theory, they teach how theory is applied in real life. Much of the teaching takes place through interactive lectures, simulated games and case studies.

Two of the recent games we’ve simulated were the Beer Distribution Game and the Red / Blue Game. The Beer Distribution Game demonstrates a number of key principles of supply chain management, most importantly the Bullwhip Effect. The Red / Blue game is a game theory exercise, bringing to life the iterated prisoner's dilemma.

The aim of these games is to teach behavioural theories that are complex to explain but simple to demonstrate. Learning through play is not something I’d expected from business school but did prove a surprisingly effective way to learn.