Top University Offers Course in Playing Video Games

Learn While Gaming

One of the world's top ten universities is now offering a course in playing video games as an option for its students. The University of California, Berkeley, rated the eighth best university in the world, is teaching students the art of fighting games.

Benefits of the Course

The course not only teaches students how to play fighting games and improve their skills, but also provides insights into the history and culture of Japan, as well as the gaming industry. Basic Japanese language skills are also part of the curriculum.

Grading and Projects

Grading for the course is based on attendance, homework, fighting tournaments, and a final project. The tournaments focus on reflecting on mistakes made during gameplay, rather than just winning. The final project involves a deep dive into the history of a specific fighting game character and their impact on the genre.

Changing Perceptions

This course, though only two units, highlights the changing perception of gaming as an educational medium. It demonstrates how public opinion on gaming is evolving and being taken more seriously in academic settings.

Gaming in Education

Gaming is also making its way into schools through platforms like Minecraft Education. This subscription-based add-on allows students to engage with a variety of educational lessons in subjects beyond just gaming.

If you're interested in learning more about the intersection of video games and education, check out the new Planet Earth 3 x Minecraft crossover.