|
|
|
|
|
History
The idea of an office simulation can be traced back to the
17th Century. In Europe, simulated practice firms have been
established for many years as places for commercial
training. Since World War II, however, these simulated
offices have evolved into a practical vehicle for
interdisciplinary instruction and an in-school work
experience.
After visiting practice firms in Vienna, Austria in 1994 and observing the benefits of this instructional model, the New York City High School Superintendents spearheaded the development of practice firms (virtual enterprises) in seven New York City public high schools—the first program of its kind in the United States.
The Virtual Enterprise Program in New York City public schools has drawn national attention as an applied learning instructional model for business, economics, finance and career education. The concept has grown in the United States to include programs in over 500 secondary and post-secondary institutions.
