FIST (foreign interactions in simulated transition): an instructional use of the computer

There are many instances in a classroom situation when it is difficult to describe or explain an event or concept. Especially difficult are the real-world dynamic processes where there are multi-variable interactions on varying dimensions. Few processes are as difficult to illustrate as the international political system, in general, or foreign policy-making, specifically. These complex, dynamic, real-world situations can sometimes be best understood by the student if (s)he is able to experience and be part of these processes. One such experience available to the student of foreign policy in international relations is FIST.