How Video Games Are Transforming STEM Education

Video games have been a universal language among students for years, capturing their attention and imagination. And now, the Harlem Gallery of Science (HGS) is tapping into this digital passion to open new avenues in STEM education. With the empowering mission of equipping students with crucial knowledge and skills, HGS showcases video games as a bridge to learning.

Educators Unlock the Potential of Video Games

At the forefront of this educational revolution are Professors Stan Altman and Brian Schwartz. Partnering with HGS, they discovered that the same digital games students adored could also be tools for learning. Altman observed, “Young people play games to develop skills,” and those same skills are what educators seek to instill for the 21st-century workforce.

The Great Connector: A Game-Changer in Education

HGS’s innovative approach led to “Video Games: The Great Connector,” an interactive exhibition that captivates the minds of students, teachers, and parents alike. According to ABC7 Los Angeles, this traveling pop-up uses games and activities to deepen connections between personal identity, community interaction, and future career paths in STEM. The vibrant exhibition has become a hit, motivating thousands to think of video games as more than just entertainment.

Building Connections Through Characters

Project manager Matthew Lopez, an alum of the program, highlights one of the exhibition’s most vivid experiences: the drawing station. Here, students draw their favorite game characters and discuss their significance. For many, these characters reflect personal identities and shared experiences, offering powerful teaching moments, especially in diverse communities like Harlem and the South Bronx.

Broader Accessibility and Impact

Beyond personal growth, HGS’s success in engaging students with deep, shared stories has fueled its expansion to community schools. This accessibility transforms how students see themselves in STEM careers and the real world. Institutions interested in hosting this transformative exhibit can gather more information through the Harlem Gallery of Science’s resources.

In this ever-evolving landscape, games continue to level up students’ educational journeys, paving the way for a future where learning meets passionate play.