NASAGA Member of the Month: Tim Handley

Every month, we highlight one NASAGA member and the great things they’re doing. This month’s Member of the Month is Tim Handley, Senior Science Curriculum Developer at Art of Problem Solving.

What kind of work do you do?

It's been a lot of different things over the years. I've done ecological research for the National Park Service, a lot of classroom teaching of STEM subjects and game design principles, and developed playful learning experiences for various clients (schools) and on my own. In my current job, I write and teach after school science classes for elementary students. Wherever possible, I include interactive activities - labs, puzzles, and small tabletop games.

Why are you a NASAGA member?

Curiosity and community. The space of serious games design is unfortunately fragmented, and it can be hard to meet (much less keep in touch with) with fellow practitioners. I joined NASAGA out of hopeful curiosity, and had a great time at the 2024 NASAGA conference in Atlanta. I was amazed to find that almost all of the sessions were games. This was a great way to learn what like-minded educators had built, while also getting to meet them as teammates and opponents in the various games. 10/10 would do it again.

What’s your favorite NASAGA memory? 

More than any single memory, I appreciated the vibe and the community. The moment I arrived in the hotel for the 2024 conference, it was clear that I was among my people. Whether in professional conversations or friendly evening games, I felt at home. The people around me were experts in their fields, people who shared a love of games and education, but who were different enough that they all had something I could learn. And all were happy to share their experience and expertise.

NASAGA’s theme for the 2025 Conference is paahpioni iiši-neepwaantiinki, “A Path to Playful Learning.” What does “Playful Learning” look like in your space?

I'm currently writing a Mars-themed STEM summer camp. A portion of each day will be devoted to a lightweight space mission simulation. Students will need to manage energy production and distribution, be aware of the mental and physical health of their astronauts, and work together to make their mission a success. It's still in early playtesting, with some awkwardnesses, but I'm feeling hopeful that this will be a good experience for our students - fun, interdisciplinary, and learning-ful.