As educational technology continues to evolve and expand, schools across the nation are exploring innovative ways to engage students and prepare them for future careers. One emerging trend that’s increasingly capturing attention is the integration of esports into school curricula. We’ve assembled a variety of examples and resources for integrating esports in the classroom – read on and be inspired by these novel and successful implementations!
The North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) has been at the forefront of promoting esports in schools for several years, and we’re big fans. Their approach is built on a foundation of core values: Learning, Opportunity, Community, Diversity, and Respect. They’ve developed initiatives to make esports accessible to all students, regardless of gender, background, or skill level.
NASEF has been particularly successful in bringing more girls and women into the esports arena through programs like the Girls in Gaming Summer Camp. They’re also tackling online toxicity by encouraging players to take the GLHF (Good Luck, Have Fun) Pledge, promoting sportsmanship and inclusive behavior in gaming spaces. You can check out their resources for getting started with classroom esports here.
Intel, a leader in computing technology, is a major supporter and researcher of the integration of esports in K-12 education. They emphasize the multifaceted benefits of esports programs, including the development of STEAM skills, increased student engagement, and enhanced opportunities for student inclusion.
Per Intel’s investigations, esports can foster positive interactions among students, teach teamwork and communication skills, and create a sense of belonging. They highlight the equitable nature of esports, allowing participation regardless of physical abilities, gender identity, or age. Intel also notes that esports can inspire students to pursue higher education or careers in STEAM fields.
Check out their whitepaper here!
(Image: K-12 Dive)
K-12 Dive recently spoke to Kevin Brown, chief academic officer for the Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federations (NASEF), who emphasized the importance of intentionally connecting esports to curriculum. He warns against using games with only a peripheral connection to a subject, stressing that the integration must further learning objectives.
Brown shares an example of a biology teacher in Japan who created a lesson on eye health using video games as a testing space. Students tracked metrics like rest and diet, then charted whether they improved in their chosen game. With approaches like this, esports can be meaningfully integrated into traditional subjects.
Rebecca Torchia’s article writeup in EdTech Magazine highlights the practical aspects of starting esports programs. She profiles superintendents in western Pennsylvania who have successfully implemented these programs despite initial challenges.
Sue Mariani, superintendent of Duquesne City School District, relied on support from other school leaders and secured funding through grants. She and Laura Jacob from Pennsylvania’s California Area School District used Remake Learning grants to obtain gaming hardware. They opted for more affordable Xbox systems instead of high-end PCs to include more students.
Both administrators report increased student engagement as a result of their esports programs. They emphasize how esports reaches a different demographic of students, particularly those not involved in traditional athletics.
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From fostering STEAM skills to increasing student engagement and providing new paths to higher education, esports programs are proving to be valuable additions to many schools. As this field continues to evolve, educators and administrators will need to stay informed about best practices for implementation and potential pitfalls to avoid. By thoughtfully integrating esports into their curricula, schools can harness students’ enthusiasm for competitive gaming to drive meaningful educational outcomes.
You can check out our approach to educational esports through the FIRST Global RoboCo Challenge, which took place in our digital robotics game RoboCo. Got an idea for an educational esports project of your own? Contact us about our educational game development services!