Do You Want to Play a Game?

Wednesday, February 25, 10:00 am–11:50 am
Seattle Convention Center - 619

We will be introducing the idea of “play‑to‑learn”: learners fail safely, receive instant feedback, iterate, and stay engaged thanks to narrative and reward systems. Highlight GameClass’s ability to integrate special education features and AI‑driven lesson creation, making customized learning accessible. By embedding reading challenges, logical puzzles, or historical simulations within familiar gameplay, students practice real academic skills—literacy, problem-solving, critical thinking—while immersed in environments they find intrinsically motivating.
We will conclude by inviting participants to brainstorm how to repurpose popular game mechanics (quests, levels, teamwork) into lessons across subject areas—encouraging creativity, autonomy, and deeper understanding.

Format:
Learning Lab
Focus Area:
Artificial Intelligence, Engagement, Gaming
Audience:
Elementary Educators, Middle School Educators, High School Educators
Skill Level:
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Grade Level:
Grades PreK-2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12, Grades K-12, Postsecondary

Presented by


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Al Gonzalez (Presenter)
6th Grade STEM Teacher
Chimacum Elementary School

Alfonso (Al) Gonzalez is a 6th-grade STEM teacher at Chimacum Elementary School with 34 years of experience. Honored as the 2021 NCCE Outstanding Educator of the Year and a 2022 EPA Presidential Innovation Award recipient, Al integrates cutting-edge technology and environmental education into his dynamic 1:1 classroom. Over his career, he has secured 27 grants, including 24 consecutive years of funding, to enhance STEM, robotics, and environmental science curricula. Known for his innovative and practical strategies, Al inspires both students and educators to reimagine what’s possible in teaching and learning. https://about.me/alfonso_gonzalez/


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Tammie Schrader (Presenter)
Education Consultant
Level Up Education