Faculty Shout-Out: Kim Payne Innovates with Simulated Experiences in Marketing
Simulated Experiences are transforming how we approach teaching and learning, but they wouldn’t be possible without faculty who are committed to exploring new and innovative teaching strategies. In our very first Faculty Shout-Out, we celebrate Kim Payne, Adjunct Instructor of Marketing at Saint Leo University, for incorporating these immersive simulations into his Personal Selling course.
Kim recently introduced two different selling scenarios designed to help students build key sales skills. “We used simulations focused on two primary objectives: practicing questioning techniques and overcoming objections,” Payne shared. “The goal was to help students understand how to use questions effectively in sales conversations and how to confidently manage customer objections.”
After the simulations, Kim gathered feedback from his students, who responded overwhelmingly positively to the experience. “They absolutely enjoyed interacting with the avatar. It made them feel more at ease and helped them build their confidence,” he explained. “Many students said they felt less intimidated by the avatar than by interacting with a real person. Overall, they found the experience to be incredibly valuable.”
Working with Kim is always a rewarding experience. His collaboration with Simulation Specialists—such as myself—is filled with enthusiasm and creativity. When I participate in virtual interactions with his marketing students, it’s clear that Kim’s supportive, engaging teaching style fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. His genuine respect for his students is reciprocated with admiration, and it’s easy to see why his students feel empowered by his teaching. His commitment to creating meaningful and memorable learning experiences makes him a treasured member of the Saint Leo academic community.
Kim Payne is just one example of the many faculty members at Saint Leo who are embracing the potential of Simulated Experiences to enhance their teaching. Could you be the next faculty member to bring innovative simulations to your curriculum? If you’re interested in exploring this exciting opportunity, we invite you to reach out to us to learn more about scheduling your own Simulated Experiences.
Visit our website for more information: https://simulation.saintleo.edu/contact-us/.
By Emily Kochanski
