Name: Welcome to the Simulation: Are We Accidentally Teaching Students to be NPCs?
Start: 2025-06-12T14:05:00-0600
End: 2025-06-12T15:00:00-0600

Thursday June 12, 2025 2:05pm - 3:00pm MDT

H809

Are we training students to be NPCs (non-playable characters) in their own education? In many classrooms, students passively complete tasks, follow rigid instructions, and avoid risk-taking—just like background characters in a video game. What if learning experiences encouraged students to be player characters instead?
This interactive session explores how game design, RPG mechanics, and choice-driven learning can transform the classroom. Educators will discover practical strategies for making learning more engaging, including “quest” assignments, the concept of "leveling up", and choice-based exploration. We’ll examine case studies, brainstorm lesson redesigns, and leave with ready-to-use ideas that promote curiosity, problem-solving, and agency.

Speakers

Taylor Van Sickle

BFM Educator, Alpine School District

Taylor Van Sickle is a 7th grade Digital Literacy and 9th grade Digital Business Applications teacher at Lakeridge Junior High School. With a background in digital marketing & advertising, digital media, and gamification strategies, Taylor enjoys in designing engaging, real-world... Read More →

Thursday June 12, 2025 2:05pm - 3:00pm MDT
H809

BFM Session

Combined Hospitality & Tourism Summer Conference for BFM and FCS Teachers

Taylor Van Sickle

Attendees (1)

Combined Hospitality & Tourism Summer Conference for BFM and FCS Teachers

Taylor Van Sickle

Attendees (1)

Sign up or log in to save this to your schedule, view media, leave feedback and see who's attending!