Lecture Notes: Lights, Camera, Inclusion

Introduction

• Series Name: Lights, Camera, Inclusion
• Platform: Now and Next, Canada Media Fund's editorial platform
• Focus: Ensuring kids and youth access to inclusive, insightful, and engaging content
• Episode: Third episode in Toronto

Guest: Dr. Chris Alexander

• Role: Associate Professor of Game Design, Toronto Metropolitan University
• Position: Director of the Red Bull Gaming Hub
• Advocacy: Video games as interactive learning tools
• Parental Role: Parents should curate inclusive games for children

Red Bull Gaming Hub

• Focus Areas:
  • Video game design
  • Solo production
  • Evolution of education
• Teaching Methodology: Practical application of theory, called 'pilot training'
• Facilities: 36 stations for training

Gaming as a Learning Tool

• Components: Combines audio, text, video with autonomy
• Learning by Doing: Players learn through interaction and feedback
• Example: Falling in a game teaches caution

Teaching Empathy and Social Skills through Gaming

• Example Game: Virginia - based on a true FBI story
• Teaching Method: Students play and discuss games in class
• Outcome: Builds understanding and personal connection to stories

Curating Inclusive Gaming Content

• Story: Personal story of financial literacy through gaming
• Advice to Parents: Be involved in curating games
• Example Initiative: Teaching underserved communities to build computers

Myths and Facts About Gaming

• Gaming Addiction: Addressing parental concerns
• Financial Responsibility: Encouraging self-support through gaming
• Diversity in Gaming: Importance of visible curators and librarians

Creating Inclusive and Diverse Games

• Current Projects:
  • Typing game with geolocation-based bread recipes
  • Game about family and fatherhood

Challenges and Solutions in Game Design

• Inclusivity Myths: Need for more diversity in hiring
• Parental Involvement: Parents as curators of children's gaming content
• Technology Education: Educating parents and students alike

Conclusion

• Empowerment Through Knowledge: Teaching and enabling self-sufficiency
• Encouraging Participation: Debunking the fear of creating and designing
• Final Thoughts: Emphasizing action and personal capability