article written by student: https://aub.ac.uk/latest/krischan-ramdeo-reflections-on-the-lets-talk-games-conference
Earlier this term, on February 11th I took my students from Games Art and Design course for a conference in Lemington Spacalled Let’s Talk Games. We introduced with a marketing team an experimental format inviting student to write about their experience and it turned out to be extremely successful. As for tutor, seeing students reflect on their conference visit reveals the immense value of such learning experiences. The article highlights the excitement of stepping into a real-world environment where industry leaders and game designers discuss innovative techniques and creative processes. The student captures a palpable sense of enthusiasm for learning, which is crucial for fostering a growth mindset within students.
One of the most striking elements in the reflection is the student’s ability to connect their academic work with industry insights. This speaks to the importance of such conferences, where students not only gain technical knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of the creative process and the collaborative nature of the game design industry. For example, the presentation by Peter Field on using Dreams as a conceptualisation tool emphasises the intersection of artistic creativity and technical constraints, offering students a practical way to approach game design in a real-world context.
As a tutor, I believe this experience allows students to think critically about the gap between their academic learning and industry demands, inspiring them to refine their skills and broaden their career aspirations.
Moreover, the student’s reflection on the camaraderie within the group is also noteworthy. This highlights the role of peer learning and collaboration in the academic environment, fostering a community of practice where students can share ideas, debate, and push each other’s boundaries. The excitement to return and apply new insights to their work showcases the energizing impact of experiential learning. Such conferences do not just enrich students’ technical knowledge but also spark their passion and drive for creative development, which is a key part of their journey in becoming professionals in the field.
This reflection, from both a tutor’s and student’s perspective, is a powerful reminder of the importance of bridging academic learning with real-world experiences, ultimately enriching the educational process, as covered in The Reflection Game (MacFarlane, R., & Gorley, A., 2009).
References:
- MacFarlane, R., & Gorley, A. (2009). The Reflection Game: The Role of Reflection in Educational Practice. Educational Reflective Journal.
- Steventon, G., Cureton, D., & Clouder, C. (2016). Attainment in Higher Education: Issues, Controversies, and Debates. Routledge.