Episode 9 -CT Careers in Gaming

Host: David DesRoches, Quinnipiac University

Guests: Bernard François, PreviewLabs / Elena Bertozzi, Quinnipiac University / Kimberly Hieftje, Yale School of Medicine 

"Select+CT" is a Digital Media Connecticut (DMCT) podcast series dedicated to Connecticut's Digital Media industry!

What is the thought process behind game development? There isn’t exactly one narrow answer to this question, but listening to this episode may help define the possibilities. 

Right now there is a huge market in developing serious or applied games. These are effective ways of teaching and training children, teens, and young adults. 

David DesRoches interviews Bernard Francois, Preview Labs, Elena Bertozzi, Quinnipiac University, and Kimberly Hieftje, Yale School of Medicine. Each developer gave their take on what thoughts are behind a fully functioning game. Bernard prototyped a game where the player was operating a forklift: This seemingly simple action is another way that an employer can train future employees to operate pieces of machinery. This practice also helps eliminate the risk of getting hurt if the trainee had made a mistake. Bernard's prototype is an example of how games can make for a safer learning process. Elena’s work is about how to give people the tools to make changes in their lives in order to benefit them. Kimberly’s lab focuses on increasing behavior change in both teens and young adults through whatever storyline they come up with.

Takeaways from Bernard, Elena, and Kimberly: 

• Playing the most popular game doesn’t necessarily mean that you are getting the most out of it. Health prevention and promotion games tend to receive the least amount of attention, but they are the most helpful. 
• Games are a very safe space for kids to practice decision making.
• Developers learn how to build a game that's seeking to achieve a specific goal, and later check to see whether or not they've achieved it.