DURHAM, N.C. — Educators, researchers, game developers and industry professionals gathered at Duke University Aug. 5–7 for the 19th annual Serious Play Conference, exploring how games and interactive technology can be used in education, healthcare, research and social change.
Held at Duke’s Pratt School of Engineering, the three-day conference featured more than 120 speakers and 80 sessions, along with workshops, demonstrations, panels, networking opportunities and playable digital, tabletop and virtual reality experiences.
Among the presenters was Javon Goard, M.S., who led a session titled “Black Joy Within Gaming Culture.” His presentation highlighted Black experiences and representation within gaming and was part of a conference that brought together a diverse community of creators, educators and professionals.
“Games have become one of the most powerful ways to teach, train, communicate and make complex systems understandable,” said Paul Darvasi, executive director of the Serious Play Conference.
Sessions examined topics ranging from medical training and mental health to education, data privacy, human trafficking prevention and the use of games for underserved populations.
The conference also gave attendees opportunities to connect directly with fellow creators and researchers, experience new games and exchange ideas about the growing role of interactive media in classrooms, institutions and communities.
