Faculty of Arts & Science

Digital Futures

Leanna Barwick

Thesis V2: Experiential Learning, Game Design & Relationship Systems Intelligence

ABSTRACTExperiential learning is a pedagogical approach that emphasizes hands-on experience and reflection. It has been widely used in various fields such as psychology, education, and business. Game design, critical play, and systems thinking are approaches that can enhance the effectiveness of experiential learning by providing a unique way to learn and practice skills in a safe and engaging environment. This paper discusses the benefits of integrating game design, critical play, and systems thinking into experiential learning and how it can lead to the development of essential skills, specifically conflict resolution skills. The paper draws on academic references, including Flanagan's (2009) Critical Play, Mindell's (2002) Deep Democracy, Goleman's (1995) Emotional Intelligence, and Schell's (2020) The Art of Game Design, to support the argument, provide practical examples of how these frameworks have been integrated into experiential learning activities, and look a case study; “Playshop” (2023), a visioning workshop designed for the OCAD University Digital Futures Undergraduate Program.

“Also includes DF Playshop 2023 presentation in package”