Engaging Students with Pro-Social Games: A Pathway to Empathy and Connection

💡Games offer unique opportunities for social connection and empathy development.

🎮The game 'Bury Me, My Love' immerses players in the experiences of Syrian refugees, fostering understanding and empathy.

📚Accompanying curricula can amplify the impact of pro-social games, encouraging reflection and deeper engagement.

🌍The use of pro-social games can have a global impact by fostering empathy and understanding of diverse experiences.

🗣️Meaningful discussions facilitated by pro-social games can lead to increased social and emotional awareness among students.

What is a pro-social game?

—A pro-social game is a video game designed to foster positive social behavior, empathy, and connection among players.

How can pro-social games promote empathy?

—Pro-social games provide players with immersive experiences that allow them to see the world from different perspectives and understand the challenges faced by others.

What is 'Bury Me, My Love'?

—'Bury Me, My Love' is an award-winning game that follows the journey of a Syrian refugee and prompts players to make choices that impact the character's story.

How can curriculum support the use of pro-social games?

—Curriculum can enhance the educational value of pro-social games by guiding reflection, promoting discussions, and connecting game experiences to broader social and emotional themes.

Can pro-social games be used in different cultural contexts?

—Yes, pro-social games have the potential to foster empathy and understanding across cultural boundaries by exposing players to diverse experiences.

02:11Introduction to the session on engaging students with pro-social games.

05:35The role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in education.

11:37Importance of considering the socio-political reality and social justice issues in SEL and game-based learning.

19:02Benefits of pro-social games for fostering connection and empathy among players.

26:45Introduction to the game 'Bury Me, My Love' and its impact on players' understanding of the refugee experience.

34:22Discussion on the curriculum accompanying the game, which enhances students' social and emotional learning.

42:50Exploration of the global impact of pro-social games in promoting empathy and understanding.

49:15Reflection on the role of meaningful discussions facilitated by pro-social games in developing social and emotional awareness.