News

Webinar Explores "The Power of Play: Video Games in Education"

On Wednesday, January 31, 2024, the David C. Anchin Center for the Advancement of Teaching hosted a webinar titled, "The Power of Play: Video Games in Education." The event, facilitated by Dr. Csaba Osvath and Dr. David Rosengrant, brought together educators, administrators, and researchers to delve into the transformative potential of video games in K-12 education.

Dr. Csaba Osvath, an Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida, specializes in literacy education with a keen focus on qualitative methods, extended reality, and arts-based research. Dr. Osvath's research explores the epistemological and pedagogical roles of art-making within literacy education, providing valuable insights into how video games can enhance learning outcomes.

Joining him was Dr. David Rosengrant, a Professor of STEM education and the Campus Dean at USF St. Petersburg campus. Dr. Rosengrant's lifelong passion for gaming and expertise in physics education, virtual reality, and eye-tracking technology enriched the discussion, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the role of video games as educational tools.

Throughout the webinar, attendees were immersed in an engaging exploration of how video games can enhance language learning, vocabulary acquisition, and problem-solving skills in students. The speakers highlighted various gaming theories and methodologies that educators can integrate into their teaching practices to create interactive learning environments.

The event concluded with a dynamic question and answer session, allowing participants to delve deeper into the highlighted video games and gain practical insights into incorporating gaming theory into classroom settings.

This webinar not only provided valuable insights into the educational potential of video games but also equipped attendees with practical strategies to harness the power of play for enhanced student engagement and learning outcomes.

A recording of the event can be found below.