Die konsep- en produktoetsing van 'n nuwe ekonomie-bordspel by hoërskoolleerlinge

Abstract

A perception that high school pupils do not enjoy economics and business economics as school subjects was initially formed. It seemed that pupils could not integrate the theory they were taught at school with practice and that these subjects were too theoretical. The idea to develop a new board game with economic and business economic concepts originated. The aim of this study was to do the concept- and product testing of the new board game with high school pupils. The development and testing of new products are discussed in chapter two. The process of developing new products is discussed, while certain phases such as concept- and product testing are discussed in chapter three. Businesses exist because needs are identified in markets. Unsatisfied needs create opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop and introduce new products to the market. The empirical study consisted of the concept- and product testing of the new board game and was done with the aid of questionnaires. The concept of the new board game was discussed and a prototype shown to 356 (N=356) pupils in 7 different schools in Potchefstroom. These schools presented economics and/or business economics as subjects. All the pupils completed the questionnaires. Eighty seven pupils were included in the product testing phase of the research. These pupils played the board game and completed a second questionnaire. The study prompts certain major conclusions. Pupils generally enjoy economics and business economics as subjects but they feel that the subjects are too theoretical. As a result they struggle to learn for the subjects. Pupils follow economic events but don't enjoy reading about them. Board games are still played if enjoyed and the duration thereof is not too long. The pupils felt that the new board game could be a practical aid to the teacher and they enjoyed playing it. The results of the concept- and product testing were very positive and virtually complimented each other throughout. The further development of the new board game must be considered and if necessary tested in the market. According to the results of the concept- and product testing of this study, the new economy board game can eventually be introduced to the market as a successful new product.