June 13, 2015

Science, Technology, and AQWorlds

7-12th Graders Use Videogames to Learn about Technology

At the Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum's STEM Summer Camp, a group of dedicated counselors and crazy-smart, enthusiastic teens are leveling up their real-life Intellect and Wisdom stats through science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses. And to give them extra hands-on experience, one computer science class taught by Artix Entertainment volunteer Cody Moore, has its students create characters in AdventureQuest Worlds and HeroSmash!

AQWorlds: Virtual Classroom

Moore, one of AE's volunteer testers, told us about his incredible class of students, explaining how they've been using AQWorlds and HeroSmash to learn about how the internet works: how anyone can connect to people on the other side of the world, work together to accomplish their goals, and keep their personal information secure. 

"Some of them actually already played AQW, and it was amazing to see them teaching the new players in the class how to play the game! [...] It really blew their minds when I explained to them what all went into making the games and how many different kinds of jobs there are to do in the game design field!" - Cody Moore, camp counselor

STEM Summer Camp

The camp, based out of Hammond, Lousiana, offers several different classes for the students to choose from, focused on science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and aeronautics, all geared towards helping them prepare for future career opportunities.

Moore's class focuses on subjects like:

• computer hardware 
• software installation
• basic networking and trouble-shooting 
• internet safety and privacy

After his students finished covering the planned coursework, Moore took time to explore a career many of them were curious about: videogame development. He covered the different types of jobs available, how videogames are made, and what steps to take to pursue careers in the future. 

STEM's Students: Inspired and Inspiring

We were so inspired by Moore's students and their enthusiasm, we've added the STEMWare OS Computer house item in-game, to commemorate their drive and desire to reach their goals, realize their dreams, and build the worlds they want to live in!

We need to encourage as many people like them as we can to choose careers in the STEM fields. That's the only way to make sure we have the future scientists, engineers, innovators, and programmers we need to invent time machines, explore the galaxy, and defy the laws of science.

(We're also making sure Moore and his students have everything they need to battle through this summer's in-game events AND the rest of their classes in style!)