Computer Information Systems: Case Studies

These case studies are part of an on-going curriculum and simulations development project between the College of Saint Scholastica’s School of Business and Technology (SBT) and Learning-Games.net (www.learningames.net), and are designed to help students explore the field of information systems analysis through case simulations and role-playing game (RPG) scenarios. In addition, they can be used in combination with a queueing theory model and both continuous, as well as discrete-event simulations. The related RPG scenarios focus on real-life systems found in performance and management information systems.

In short, through the case studies presented in this collection, students will explore mission critical computer information systems designed to teach and explore analytic thinking and best practices through operations research modeling methods and solution algorithms.

Dr. Thomas Buck is a Lecturer in the School of Business and Technology, at the College of St. Scholastica of Duluth, MN and teaches courses in management ethics, technology ethics, e-commerce, e-marketing, information systems and programming. With a PhD specializing in Educational Technology and Applied Information Systems, an MBA in Rural Healthcare, and an MS in Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Buck's work includes teaching, research, and antiques.

His research work is two-fold, (i) web-based assessment tools and educational game design; and, (ii) e-commerce and social/cultural entrepreneurship. In assessment tools and game design, he is conducting an on-going research project on learning styles and distance learning, focusing on the developmental principles of educational psychology, game design, gender role theory, and assessment. He has also published a number of peer reviewed studies and books on topics ranging from Learning Styles and Web-based Learning to Technology Literacy Recommendations for colleges and universities. His related published works include his book, Learning in Cyberspace: A Guide to Authentic Assessment Tools for Web-based Instruction, and his McGraw-Hill/Irwin 2014 Distinguished Papers Award winning paper, Living the Case Study: Teaching Management and Leadership Ethics Through Serious Games, published by The Society for the Advancement of Information Systems.

As a small business owner, designated Cultural Entrepreneur, and internationally recognized Conservator of East Asian Historical & Cultural Artifacts, another one of Dr. Buck's passions is his research on Japanese and Chinese history, philosophy and fine arts. Among his related published works are his books The Art of Tsukamaki and Ancient Japanese Swords and Fittings, both available on Amazon.com.