Introduction
A simulation without a debrief is entertainment. Debriefs connect decisions to outcomes, illuminate blind spots, and define specific next actions.
AI can support facilitators with real‑time notes, question prompts, and summaries, but the structure must be intentional.
What is it?
Follow a simple flow: Replay → Sense‑making → Alternatives → Principles → Commitments. Anchor discussion in evidence: choices, metrics, and observed behaviors.
Key Points
- Ask before tell: amplify participant insights first
- Use evidence artifacts to avoid abstraction
- Name the behavior, not the person
- End with commitments and follow‑up nudges
Why it matters
Debriefs convert experience into learning by making causal links explicit and actionable.
Retention
Reflection consolidates memory and guides future cues.
Transfer
Commitments describe how to act differently in real contexts.
Scale
AI‑generated notes standardize quality across facilitators.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should debriefs be?
Roughly 1× the scenario time in workshops; shorter for microsims with an optional deeper debrief for cohorts.
Can AI lead debriefs?
AI can scaffold and personalize prompts, but psychological safety and nuance benefit from human facilitation when possible.
What artifacts help?
Decision history, metric changes, stakeholder quotes, and behavior tags. Keep them concise and relevant.