Author: by Beth A.

The 2006 Toronto Independent Games Conference (TIGC), a Toronto-based educational conference and trade event for game developers, is bringing out Professor David Hutchison, Ph.D., for a session on "Video Games in the Classroom." David Hutchison is the author of two books and an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education, Brock University (Ontario, Canada), where he teaches courses in educational foundations (history of education) and social studies. He is also the owner and lead developer at Lakewood Studios, a Macintosh software developer. Based on his upcoming third book, which was accepted by Teacher Ideas Press in April, 2006, Hutchison's presentation "Video Games in the Classroom" outlines 25+ activities that are starting points for independent game design in the classroom. In his own classroom, he strives to get students to think critically about video games--as consumers, critics, and creators. In the session, Hutchinson will go over pedagogical techniques and practical hands-on strategies for teaching game design. Although not usually targeted at academics, TIGC is expanding its focus beyond its usual participants of indies, hobbyists, and students to also appeal to educators. TIGC aims to provide educational, business, and networking opportunities for both game development professionals and those who would like to break into the game development industry. The 2006 Toronto Independent Games Conference will be held from Thursday, August 31, 2006 to Saturday, September 2, 2006. For more details, visit their website.