Promoting Active Learning in Nuclear Security through Table-Top Exercises

Despite the existence of vast literature on the use of table-top exercises (TTXs) and other simulation games for educational and training purposes, little attention has been paid so far to examine how this teaching tool can be used in the field of nuclear security. Drawing on the authors’ experience in using TTXs in nuclear security Professional Development Courses (PDCs) over the past seven years, the papers presents an approach to deconstruct TTXs in three main components and offers an overview over the main benefits and challenges associated with the use of this teaching tool. The paper finds that TTXs are extremely useful learning resources that allow students to deepen their knowledge though active learning, especially when used to reinforce concepts previously presented through other more traditional teaching methods.