Experience Points
119 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago -Welcome to Experience Points by University XP hosted by Dr. Dave Eng. On Experience Points we explore different ways we can learn from games. Find out more at www.universityxp.com I hope you find this show useful. If you’d like to learn more about games-based learning then a great place to start is my blog at universityxp.com/blog. University XP is also on Twitter @University_XP and on Facebook as University XP. Feel free to email me anytime at [email protected] Game on!
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Episodes
Jenny Varrichio on Applied Games for Corporate L&D
June 16, 2024 16:00 - 12 minutes - 8.89 MBJenny Varrichio on Applied Games for Corporate L&D In this episode of "Experience Points" by University XP, host Dave Eng interviews Jenny Varrichio, an associate director of training at United Healthcare with expertise in instructional design, particularly gamification for adult learners. Jenny shares her 15 years of experience, focusing on integrating gamified elements into corporate environments. The conversation covers her diverse design experiences, her doctoral research on formative g...
What is Game Literacy?
June 02, 2024 16:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MBWhat is Game Literacy? On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question: What is Game Literacy? We don’t often think about when we first started playing games. Or really the “first” game that we ever played. Most players are preoccupied with the game that they are playing “now” or the game that they will play next. Yet, we don’t stop to think about what we already know about games and how we’ve applied that to learning and experiencing new games. If you liked this episode please consider comm...
Dan White on RoboCo and GBL at Filament Games
May 19, 2024 16:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MBDan White on RoboCo and GBL at Filament Games In this podcast episode, host Dave Eng interviews Dan White, founder of Filament Games, discussing the intersection of education and gaming. Dan's journey from teaching to game development is explored, emphasizing the challenges of creating engaging learning experiences. The concept of "pleasing frustration" is covered, where games strike a balance between challenge and support to maintain learner engagement. The conversation delves into game me...
AP Table Talk: Tech Trees and Tech Tracks
May 05, 2024 16:00 - 1 hour - 42.5 MBAP Table Talk: Tech Trees and Tech Tracks In this episode of AP Table Talk, hosts Brian and Dave Eng focus on "tech tree" and “tech track” games. They emphasize how tech trees are a central component of many video games and board games, offering players various strategic paths and upgrades. They mention games like "Tapestry" and "Space Station Phoenix" that use tech tracks and tech trees for engine-building and resource management. They also explore how tech trees can add complexity and the...
Andrew Harris and the Guild Chronicles
April 21, 2024 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBAndrew Harris and the Guild Chronicles In this episode of "Experience Points" Dave Eng interviews Andrew Harris, a game designer, therapist, and educator behind The Guild Chronicles program. Andrew discusses the origins of The Guild Chronicles, a transformative game-based learning program he developed, which combines tabletop RPG elements with therapeutic and educational objectives. The program focuses on fostering social-emotional growth, collaboration, and teamwork among autistic youth. A...
What is Choice Architecture?
April 07, 2024 16:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBWhat is Choice Architecture? On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question: What is Choice Architecture? Both life and games are full of choices. Some of us approach those choices head on. Others take their time to come to rational conclusions about what choices are best for them. Yet others don’t put that much stake into the outcome of their choices. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get ...
Sue Baechler on Developing Serious Games
March 24, 2024 16:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBSue Baechler on Developing Serious Games In this episode, Dave Eng and Sue Baechler discuss the impact of learning games. Sue Baechler shares her journey from creating a sales game that broke records to starting her own learning game business. They delve into the Bottom Line Game at CVS, an educational board game that aimed to enhance profitability understanding. The game's mechanics involved challenges and opportunities on a game board, mirroring real-world scenarios. CVS used it for train...
AP Table Talk: Rondel
March 10, 2024 17:00 - 51 minutes - 35.1 MBAP Table Talk: Rondel In this episode of AP Table Talk, hosts Brian and Dave Eng focus on rondel games, where players move along a circular track to take actions. Dave introduces "Patchwork" as a significant game he played early in his relationship. They discuss games like "Sabika," highlighting rondel mechanics and unique elements. They mention thematic considerations, player count dynamics, tie-breakers, and variations in game mechanics. Dave and Brian also touch on games with changing ro...
Silviana Falcon on Lectures at Play
February 25, 2024 17:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MBSilviana Falcon on Lectures at Play In this podcast episode, host Dave Eng discusses educational games and their integration into traditional lectures with guest Silviana Falcon. Silviana shares her experience of using educational games as fundamental components of her lectures over eight years. She emphasizes the value of creating a welcoming learning environment through interactive games that foster camaraderie and teamwork among students. One of the games she uses, "StarPower" by Garry S...
Sylviana Flacon on Lectures at Play
February 25, 2024 17:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MBSilviana Flacon on Lectures at Play In this podcast episode, host Dave Eng discusses educational games and their integration into traditional lectures with guest Silviana Flacon. Silviana shares her experience of using educational games as fundamental components of her lectures over eight years. She emphasizes the value of creating a welcoming learning environment through interactive games that foster camaraderie and teamwork among students. One of the games she uses, "StarPower" by Garry S...
Liminality, Transition, and Games
February 11, 2024 17:00 - 22 minutes - 15.7 MBLiminality, Transition, and Games On today’s episode, we’ll discuss the concepts of Liminality, Transition, and Games. The term “liminal space” may not be familiar to you. But if you’ve ever made a transition from a physical place; a mental space; or experience anything that you would ever consider “life changing” or “transformative” then you may have already experienced “liminality.” But what exactly is liminality? Why is it important? How does it relate to games, learning, and games-based...
Clayton Whittle on Environmentalism and Games
January 28, 2024 17:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MBClayton Whittle on Environmentalism and Games In this podcast episode, host Dave Eng interviews Clayton Whittle, a researcher, educator, and environmentalist. Clayton's work centers around using game design to educate and motivate action in the realm of environmental education. He discusses his role as a past resident fellow at Pennsylvania State University, focusing on developing game design frameworks for environmental education. He emphasizes the importance of moving beyond designing for...
What are Tactics?
January 14, 2024 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBWhat are Tactics? On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question “What are Tactics?” Tactics are one of those concepts often discussed by gamers and designers alike. Especially when it comes to addressing playstyles, design, and competition. Tactics are often compared to strategy in this regard. But what exactly are tactics and how do they compare against strategy and strategic decisions? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolut...
Terry Pearce on Untold Play and Applied Games
December 31, 2023 17:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBTerry Pearce on Untold Play and Applied Games In this episode of the Experience Points podcast, host Dave Eng interviews Terry Pearce, founder of Untold Play, a games-based learning expert. Pearce discusses how he helps trainers, educators, and designers incorporate gamification into learning programs. He highlights his work with organizations like HSBC and the NHS, adapting complex topics like project management into interactive games. Pearce shares his process of tailoring existing materi...
Who are Casual Players?
December 17, 2023 17:00 - 27 minutes - 18.8 MBWho are Casual Players? On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question “Who are Casual Players?” Casual players are often one of the most sought-after demographics for many in the games industry. They are players that often represent various backgrounds and have a vast array of experiences with games. But who exactly are casual players and what exactly defines them? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures th...
Stefan McNinch from UnBoxEd
December 03, 2023 17:00 - 17 minutes - 12.2 MBStefan McNinch from UnBoxEd In this episode, Dave Eng speaks with Stefan McNinch, a former elementary education teacher turned game designer who founded UnBoxEd, a nonprofit program using board games to engage low-income students in social-emotional learning, history, STEM, and entrepreneurship. Stefan shares his experience using games-based learning, including RPGs, to empower students to take ownership of their education and explore their identities through character development. He discu...
The Ideal Board Game Player Part 2
November 19, 2023 17:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MBThe Ideal Board Game Player Part 2 On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question “What makes the Ideal Board Game Player?” What makes the “ideal” board games player? Some say that it takes someone who fully understands the rules. Others would say that it’s more about those who pay attention to the game rather than be subjected to distractions. Some feel that it’s tactical play and strategic thinking that makes the ideal tabletop player. If you liked this episode please consider commentin...
The Ideal Board Game Player Part 1
November 05, 2023 16:00 - 27 minutes - 19.3 MBThe Ideal Board Game Player Part 1 On today’s episode, we’ll answer the question “What makes the Ideal Board Game Player?” What makes the “ideal” board games player? Some say that it takes someone who fully understands the rules. Others would say that it’s more about those who pay attention to the game rather than be subjected to distractions. Some feel that it’s tactical play and strategic thinking that makes the ideal tabletop player. If you liked this episode please consider commenting...
What are Game Goals and Objectives?
October 22, 2023 16:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MBWhat are Game Goals and Objectives? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What are Game Goals and Objectives?” Games provide players, users, and learners with opportunities and aspects for interaction for them to engage and pursue a specific outcome. Sometimes those outcomes are set by the players themselves. Especially, if they want something from their experience. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ...
What is Analysis Paralysis?
October 08, 2023 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBWhat is Analysis Paralysis? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Analysis Paralysis?” Virtually all games have decisions that need to be made. Some of those decisions are dependent on player goals; motivations; or otherwise incentives for them to accomplish. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you. I’d also lov...
What is Strategy in Gameplay?
September 24, 2023 16:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MBWhat is Strategy in Gameplay? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Strategy in Gameplay?” In-depth strategy is one of the hallmarks of intense video games, war games, simulations, and other forms of games that persist through popular culture. The term “strategy” is one that exists beyond games and can be found in everything from military planning; to business; to personal development. But what is “strategy;” and what role does it play in game play, game design, game, develo...
What is Yomi?
September 10, 2023 16:00 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBWhat is Yomi? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Yomi?” There are many reasons why people play games. One of the most engaging reasons that some play is to compete against other players. There is a visceral thrill to competing; outmaneuvering; outthinking; and eventually winning against other competitive players. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of ...
Naomi Pariseault and HerStory
August 27, 2023 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.7 MBNaomi Pariseault and HerStory In this episode of "Experience Points" by University XP, Dave Eng and Naomi Pariseault discuss the educational value of the board game "HerStory." They explore its gameplay mechanics, the connection to learning design, and its potential as a tool for teaching and learning. The game allows players to become authors, writing a book about remarkable women in history. They delve into the game's abstraction of research and its tight connection to the goal of publish...
AP Table Talk: Pick-up and Deliver
August 13, 2023 16:00 - 1 hour - 44.5 MBAP Table Talk: Pick-up and Deliver In this episode of AP Table Talk, Brian and Dave discuss pick-up and deliver games. They start by reminiscing about their experiences with such games, including their favorite titles like Bus and Flash Point: Fire Rescue. They also mention other notable games like Clank! and Earth Reborn. They share their likes and dislikes about the pick-up and deliver mechanic, highlighting the importance of clear objectives and significant gameplay. They discuss variati...
Ray Kimball 42 Ed Games & Military Background
July 30, 2023 16:00 - 24 minutes - 17.1 MBRay Kimball 42 Ed Games & Military Background In this episode of Experience Points by University XP, host Dave Eng interviews Dr. Ray Kimball, the founder of 42 Educational Games Coaching and Design. Kimball discusses his experience teaching at West Point and how he incorporated games into his curriculum. He also talks about his decision to retire from the army and start 42Ed Games to help higher education faculty integrate games into their teaching. Ray explains how he assesses classroom a...
How do I Adapt Games for Learning?
July 16, 2023 16:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MBHow do I Adapt Games for Learning? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “How do I Adapt Games for Learning?” Most people know games as vehicles for fun, entertainment and socialization. Elements of games – through gamification – can also be used to augment, change, and influence individuals behaviors. Those behaviors can affect the way that they interact, shop, and travel. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely fre...
AP Table Talk: Mancala
July 02, 2023 16:00 - 33 minutes - 22.7 MBAP Table Talk: Mancala In this episode of AP Table Talk, Brian and Dave Eng discuss board games that utilize the Mancala mechanic, which involves moving pieces along a board with hollows or pockets. They start by reminiscing about Dave’s childhood memories of playing Mancala with his mom's old board. They then explore modern board games that have popularized this mechanic, such as Five Tribes and Trajan. They also discuss other games like Crusaders: Thy Will Be Done and Fruit Picking, which...
How do you Design Games for Flow State?
June 18, 2023 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.2 MBHow do you Design Games for Flow State? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “How do you Design Games for Flow State?” Flow is a very sought after experience in game design. It’s really engaging and enthralling because players lose a sense of time and space when they are in the flow state. They become lost and completely enveloped in the game world. But designing a game to engage players’ flow states is not an easy feat to accomplish. So, just how do you design games to that take ad...
AP Table Talk: Grid Coverage
June 04, 2023 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.9 MBAP Table Talk: Grid Coverage In the first episode of AP Table Talk, a podcast that explores board games, Brian and Dave Eng discuss the Grid Coverage mechanic. They define the mechanic as players covering a grid or filling a space using various shapes such as polyominoes. Some of the games that they discuss which use this mechanic include Patchwork, Blokus, Copenhagen, Cultivate, Silver and Gold, and Tiny Towns. Brian and Dave also discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the mechanic, such...
What is Player Relevance?
May 21, 2023 16:00 - 15 minutes - 10.7 MBWhat is Player Relevance? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Player Relevance?” Players play games for multiple different reasons. Many of those reasons have to do with their sense of intrinsic or extrinsic motivation. No matter the reason, all players play games because they find them relevant. For themselves, as well as for their player character, and through their journey throughout the game. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscrib...
What is Player Scaffolding?
May 07, 2023 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MBWhat is Player Scaffolding? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Player Scaffolding?”Many people can just jump right into games. They take one look at it and they already “get it” and know how to play. Whereas other people need a little bit of help. Sometimes this comes in the form of instruction; teaching; or learning from other players. When learning anything new, people most likely learn basic information first before attempting to implement it and then trying something...
Introducing AP Table Talk
April 23, 2023 16:00 - 9 minutes - 6.56 MBIntroducing AP Table Talk In this podcast episode, Dave Eng and his cousin Brian discuss their new podcast called AP Table Talk. They explain that the show will explore different board game mechanics such as area control and deck building, and they will discuss the history and design variations of each mechanic. They also share their early memories of playing board games separately and together, including games like Monopoly, Hero Quest, Risk, and Life. They talk about how they got into gam...
What is Game Balance?
April 09, 2023 16:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MBWhat is Game Balance? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Game Balance?” Many gamers often don’t think about “balance” when playing a game. But they should. That’s because balance creates and shapes what should be a positive experience. But what exactly is “game balance?” How is it created and designed in games; games-based learning; and gamification? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensure...
What is Player Reflection?
March 26, 2023 16:00 - 14 minutes - 10 MBWhat is Player Reflection? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Player Reflection?” Games-based learning is a form of experiential learning. Through games-based learning players experience something concrete such as game play. Instructors, educators, and moderators then lead learners through debriefings in order help them best make sense of that experience. That debriefing also includes some kind of player reflection of that experience. But what is that player reflection? ...
Debriefing Games-Based Learning
March 12, 2023 17:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MBDebriefing Games-Based Learning On today’s episode we’ll answer how to Debrief Games-Based Learning. Using games for teaching and learning is the basis for games-based learning. But, educators and instructors don’t just play games with students or ask their students to play games. Instead, games serve as a critical and fundamental part of the curriculum for helping learners grow. That’s accomplished by making sure that a proper debriefing has occurred after game play. If you liked this ep...
What is Expectancy Theory?
February 26, 2023 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBWhat is Expectancy Theory? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question: “What is Expectancy Theory?” Thinking about why we do something is often a central part of all of our activities. Those include why we work, play, or form relationships with one another. This is the central aspect of motivation: knowing what will happen or occur as a result of our own actions. These are central elements of expectancy theory. A theory which addresses how we approach the results of our behaviors and the...
How do players create meaning in games?
February 12, 2023 17:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MBHow do players create meaning in games? On today’s episode we’ll cover how players create meaning in games. Creating and making meaning is something that everyone does at every point of their day. Creating meaning is one of the hallmarks of sentience. We think, therefore we are. But what exactly is meaning? How does meaning making occur? How does meaning making relate to games-based learning? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is ab...
Applied Games-Based Learning
January 29, 2023 17:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBApplied Games-Based Learning On today’s episode we’ll cover Applied Games-Based Learning. Games-based learning can be a powerful tool for educators. That’s because it allows them to use established games for teaching, learning, training, and education. But how exactly do you apply games-based learning? What specific learning outcomes can you target? What games are specifically available to meet the needs of your students? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and ...
Playing Serious Games
January 15, 2023 17:00 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBPlaying Serious Games On today’s episode we’ll cover Playing Serious Games. Serious games are games created from the ground up for teaching and learning. These also include games created for a social purpose outside of the more tradition paths of games for entertainment. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you. I’d also love i...
Designing learning games with players in mind
January 01, 2023 17:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MBDesigning learning games with players in mind On today’s episode we’ll cover designing learning games with players in mind. Games are powerful tools for teaching; entertaining; and learning. Playing games is almost always an enjoyable activity. However, designing educational games with the audience – otherwise known as players - in mind can be incredibly challenging. This episode will address how to design games with players in mind. There are multiple things to take into consideration whe...
How to teach someone to play a game
December 18, 2022 17:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MBHow to teach someone to play a game On today’s episode we’ll cover “How to teach someone to play a game.” Bringing someone into gaming is one of the most rewarding aspects of the community. Games provide many great benefits. They can be entertaining, rewarding, and used for teaching, training, learning and development. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Po...
What is Kingmaking?
December 04, 2022 17:00 - 13 minutes - 8.99 MBWhat is Kingmaking? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “What is Kingmaking?” Sometimes you’ll play a competitive game where you realize that you can’t win anymore. It’s kind of depressing to think about. However, there are things that you can do and actions that you can take that will help someone else win. This scenario is called “kingmaking.” If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll g...
How many players should a game include?
November 20, 2022 17:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MBHow many players should a game include? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question “How many players should a game include?” Playing games often means playing with other people. That means that we often take into account how many players a game accommodates before we begin. But what kind of impact does the player count have in games? How many players should a game include? If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is absolutely free and ...
Distributed Practice in Games-Based Learning
November 06, 2022 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.6 MBDistributed Practice in Games-Based Learning On today’s episode we’ll examine Distributed Practice in Games-Based Learning. You are probably familiar with “cramming” and studying as much as possible in the time leading up to a test. The opposite of this is “distributed practice.” Distributed practice is where students study in small increments leading up to a test or quiz. Distributed practice is often recommended by teachers and instructors. But sometimes, students lack the foresight or di...
What is Grokking?
October 30, 2022 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.2 MBWhat is Grokking? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question: “What is Grokking?” You may have heard the word “Grok” before but may not have known what it meant. Grokking is used by different people and in different contexts. Usually, people use the term to convey thoroughly understanding and interaction with a game or system. But, the origins of the word; how it’s used; and its application to games and games-based learning is diverse and fascinating If you liked this episode please cons...
What is Constructivism?
October 16, 2022 16:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MBWhat is Constructivism? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question: “What is Constructivism?” Learning is the transformation of experience into knowledge. That means that learning is the construction of knowledge through the learner. We are learning when we are playing games. When we play games we are actively constructing the framework for how we play, understand, and interact within the game world. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscri...
What is Self-Determination Theory?
October 02, 2022 16:00 - 17 minutes - 11.9 MBWhat is Self-Determination Theory? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question: “What is Self-Determination Theory?” Making sure that your players have autonomy in your game is important. They need to know that they have the agency and the ability to do something. It’s also important that they feel competent. Players need to know that they have a reasonable chance of success when taking actions in the game. Likewise, players need to also feel that their actions are related to other effects...
What is a Knowledge Check?
September 18, 2022 16:00 - 15 minutes - 10.9 MBWhat is a Knowledge Check? On today’s episode we’ll answer the question: “What is a Knowledge Check?”Making sure that learners are learning what they need to learn is important. That’s especially important when teaching something critical, applicable, or related to something that is time sensitive. That’s when knowledge checks come into play. Knowledge checks are a way for us to determine whether our learners are learning what we want them to learn when we want them to learn it. If you lik...
Making games visually accessible
September 04, 2022 16:00 - 10 minutes - 7.47 MBMaking games visually accessible On today’s episode we’ll cover how to make games more visually accessibleMost people think games are just for play and entertainment. But you can also use games for teaching and learning through games-based learning, gamification, serious games, and simulations. But one of the most important things to consider when using something for teaching and learning is accessibility. Specifically, how can we make games more inclusive for the people that we are trying ...
Game Mechanics for Learning
August 21, 2022 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.6 MBGame Mechanics for Learning On today’s episode we’ll cover how to use game mechanics for learning.Game mechanics are the rules and procedures that guide players through the game. These mechanics also provide the structure for how the game reacts to players’ actions. This definition is great for game designers and developers, but what about for educators, instructors, professors, and teachers? How do they use game mechanics for teaching and learning? How can students benefit from game m...