There are a multitude of events and programs that are held at the JCC Esports Arena. When it was first built, I was tasked with creating custom curricula and tournaments to advertise the launch of this new space. These flyers and certificates are examples of print media that would circulate to both catch the attention of the target demographic and reward them for completing the courses that were designed.
The classes I designed were to teach children new skills and use existing skills in re-imagined ways. I did so by using a two-pronged approach.
First, I assess proficiency and knowledge of the game Minecraft, a universal game that approximately 95% of my attendees were familiar with. However, I learned that few used a physical mouse and keyboard, and many were accustomed to digital screens and keyboards. Due to the game having completely different user interfaces, they were unable to translate their knowledge from one platform to another. By the end of the program, with hands-on training and tailored objectives, the students were able to navigate the game on both a tablet and desktop computer, and even teach each other solutions to common problems.
Second, I introduce a new game altogether, Rocket League, that has a universal interface regardless of platform. Most of the students have not experienced this game, which made hesitance to experience common. Leveraging this commonality, I used videos of professional level players to demonstrate that with practice, they could develop their own styles. The primary goal was to show themselves how they learn, practice, and execute as well as develop skills that can be taken beyond the game and into workplace settings.
