CUSTOMIZATION OF INDUSTRIAL TRAINING Benefits and Problems Timo Lainema and Sami Nurmi Turku School of Economics and Business Administration, Turku, Finland timo. lainemaCaitukkk.fi Educational Technology Unit, University of Turku, Finland sami. nurmi(a)Mtu.fi Abstract: The main focus of this paper describes how authenticity can be applied to computer-based learning environments through customization. We argue for using learning tools, which not only provide realistic and complex models of reality, but are also authentic, facilitate continuous problem solving and meaningful learning, and embed learning in social experience. We describe a continuously processed business simulation game, which differs from the majority of business games in the way it is processed. Two company in-house training sessions are then described. In these sessions the learning environment was customized to describe the real-world environment of the case company. We conclude that customization of a business learning environment increases the learners' motivation and meaningful experiences. Furthermore, customization includes potential in facilitating transfer of learned knowledge and skills to a real world working environment. Key words: hidustrial Training, customized learning environments, business training. 1 INTRODUCTION Realgame (the argumentation behind Realgame is presented in Lainema 2004a and 2004b) is a computer-based simulation game, which creates a complex and authentic-like environment for learning business studies. Realgame models the environment of up to 8 manufacturing companies that compete against each other in a virtual computer network environment. Each participating company consists of optimally three participants. The company decision-making application (used by a student group) includes the main decision-making functions of a manufacturing company.