Learn at a Distance

An Expert Interview Simulation is an interactive, role-based learning strategy designed to immerse students in professional dialogues, encouraging them to engage deeply with course material while refining their communication, critical thinking, and inquiry skills. In this format, students role-play as subject matter experts, interviewers, or panelists, simulating the dynamics of professional discussions commonly seen in fields such as journalism, business, healthcare, law, and academia. Unlike traditional presentations, where students might deliver content in a one-directional format, Expert Interview Simulations emphasize dialogue, inquiry, and reflection, fostering a more dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Rooted in experiential learning theory (Kolb, 1984), this method challenges students to synthesize knowledge, formulate insightful questions, and respond thoughtfully to complex topics, mirroring real-world professional interactions. Research on role-based learning and peer-to-peer dialogue suggests that structured simulations like Expert Interviews enhance conceptual understanding, critical analysis, and professional communication skills by encouraging students to actively engage with content, articulate their ideas, and respond to differing viewpoints (Bonwell & Eison, 1991).

Implementing Expert Interview Simulations in Online Courses

The Expert Interview Simulation model is highly adaptable to both synchronous and asynchronous online learning environments. Whether students are participating in live, panel-style discussions or submitting recorded interviews and Q&A sessions, this method fosters active learning, critical inquiry, and professional discourse.

Synchronous Expert Interview Simulations: Live, Panel-Style Discussions

In a synchronous online setting, an Expert Interview Simulation unfolds as a live panel discussion or interview session, facilitated through platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Students are assigned specific roles, such as expert interviewees, panel moderators, or audience members, and are tasked with preparing for a structured, real-time conversation on a given topic.

For example, in a business ethics course, students might role-play as corporate executives or industry analysts discussing the ethical implications of a recent corporate scandal. The session would begin with interviewers posing carefully crafted questions to the experts, who must respond thoughtfully and persuasively, drawing on their knowledge of the topic and anticipating follow-up questions. The moderator or instructor may introduce new challenges or perspectives, prompting participants to adapt their responses dynamically.

This real-time, interactive format compels students to think on their feet, synthesize complex information, and engage in professional dialogue, mirroring the spontaneous, yet structured, conversations that occur in professional settings. Research on simulation-based learning indicates that live interviews and panel discussions enhance public speaking confidence, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly (Alden, 1999).

Asynchronous Expert Interview Simulations: Recorded Q&A and Podcast-Style Interviews

In asynchronous environments, Expert Interview Simulations are adapted into recorded interviews, Q&A sessions, or podcast-style discussions, allowing students to engage with the material at their own pace. Students begin by preparing interview questions and expert responses, which are then recorded and submitted using platforms like VoiceThread, Flip, or even as audio files in a podcast format.

For instance, in a healthcare policy course, a student might role-play as a public health expert being interviewed about responses to a recent pandemic. The interviewer records questions, to which the expert provides thoughtful, well-researched responses. Alternatively, students might engage in collaborative podcast episodes, where multiple participants discuss a topic from different expert perspectives, creating an engaging, dialogue-driven learning experience.

This asynchronous format encourages deeper reflection and more deliberate engagement with the material. Unlike live simulations, where responses must be immediate, asynchronous interviews give students time to research, refine their arguments, and craft thoughtful responses. Research on asynchronous role-based learning suggests that recorded interviews and podcasts enhance conceptual understanding and critical thinking by allowing students to process information at their own pace and engage in thoughtful reflection before responding (Hew & Cheung, 2013).

Why Use Expert Interview Simulations?

Expert Interview Simulations offer a dynamic and versatile approach to learning that combines critical inquiry, professional communication, and experiential engagement. They not only deepen students’ understanding of course material but also develop essential skills for success in professional environments.

Developing Critical Inquiry and Professional Communication Skills

At the heart of the Expert Interview Simulation is the art of asking the right questions and providing thoughtful, well-reasoned responses. Students must learn how to formulate insightful questions, probe for deeper understanding, and articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely. This mirrors the types of dialogues that occur in professional interviews, business meetings, journalistic reporting, and academic conferences.

For example, in a media studies course, students might role-play as journalists interviewing a media executive about trends in digital media. The interviewer must craft thoughtful, probing questions, while the executive must respond in a way that balances expert knowledge with audience engagement. This dynamic fosters critical thinking and effective communication, skills that are essential in any professional field.

Encouraging Active Engagement and Synthesis of Knowledge

Unlike traditional presentations, where students may passively deliver information, Expert Interview Simulations require active engagement and dynamic interaction with course material. Students must synthesize knowledge from multiple sources, anticipate counterarguments or follow-up questions, and adapt their responses in real-time or through thoughtful reflection. This process deepens students’ understanding of the subject matter and helps them see how theoretical concepts apply in real-world contexts.

Building Confidence and Professional Identity

Role-playing as experts or interviewers helps students build confidence in their knowledge and communication abilities. By stepping into the role of a professional, students begin to see themselves as competent practitioners in their fields, enhancing their professional identity and self-efficacy. This confidence is crucial for future success in job interviews, professional presentations, and workplace collaborations.

Applications Across Disciplines

Expert Interview Simulations are highly adaptable and can be integrated into a wide range of academic disciplines, providing opportunities for students to engage with real-world scenarios and professional dialogues.

• Business and Marketing: Students can role-play as industry experts or analysts discussing market trends, business strategies, or ethical dilemmas in corporate settings.
• Healthcare and Public Health: Simulations might involve interviews with medical professionals, public health experts, or patient advocates, exploring topics such as healthcare policy, ethical decision-making, or clinical best practices.
• Journalism and Media Studies: Students can practice conducting investigative interviews, reporting on current events, or role-playing as media executives discussing the future of journalism and digital content.
• Law and Public Policy: Expert interviews can simulate discussions with legal scholars, policy analysts, or government officials, exploring complex legal issues, legislative processes, or public policy debates.
• Education and Social Sciences: Students can role-play as educators, researchers, or social workers discussing educational theories, research findings, or community engagement strategies.

Conclusion

An Expert Interview Simulation transforms traditional content delivery into an interactive, immersive experience that fosters critical inquiry, professional communication, and deep engagement with course material. Whether conducted synchronously through live panel discussions and real-time interviews or asynchronously through recorded Q&A sessions and podcast-style dialogues, this method ensures that students actively engage with the material, synthesize knowledge, and develop essential professional skills.

By simulating the kinds of professional dialogues and interdisciplinary discussions that occur in real-world settings, Expert Interview Simulations prepare students for the complex communication challenges they will face in their careers. This method not only enhances students’ understanding of course concepts but also cultivates the critical thinking, inquiry skills, and professional confidence necessary for success in a rapidly evolving, interconnected world.

Further Reading

Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development.

Bonwell, C. C., & Eison, J. A. (1991). Active Learning: Creating Excitement in the Classroom.

Alden, D. (1999). Experience-Based Learning in Professional Education: The Role of Simulations.

Hew, K. F., & Cheung, W. S. (2013). Student Participation in Online Discussions: A Review and Future Directions.

Brookfield, S. D., & Preskill, S. (2016). The Discussion Book: 50 Great Ways to Get People Talking.