Your Conference Options (Friday AM)
For the next few weeks, we’ll be running a series of blogs called “Your Conference Options.” This lays out the different elements of the NASAGA 2024 schedule and what you can expect throughout the conference. You can always see the agenda grid at a glance here or browse descriptions directly here. And of course, don’t forget about our amazing Play Facilitator preconference; learn more about that here. And if you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time!
You’re at the halfway point of the conference! By now, you’ll have played some amazing games and hopefully be ready for more. Grab some breakfast (included in the full registration) and then it’s time for our keynote!
A Serious Game Designer’s Journey: how to take the road less traveled and stay inspired (Deborah Thomas)
Deborah Thomas of Atlanta is the founder and operator of SillyMonkey, LLC, a game-based learning business. She helps people learn difficult concepts in fun and memorable ways using board games, digital games, business simulations, and virtual worlds. Deborah’s motto is “Learn fast, remember more, and have fun doing it.” SillyMonkey has a global clientele of beverage, sales, manufacturing, safety, energy, pharmaceutical, and finance services companies.
Deborah is a former NASAGA board member and conference chair. She has also served as president of the Atlanta Chapter of the Georgia Game Developers Association, and in leadership roles for the Greater Atlanta chapter of American Society of Training and Development, the Atlanta chapter of the Technology Association of Georgia Workplace Learning Society, and Women in Games International – Atlanta chapter.
After a short break, it’s time for breakouts again!
Teaching World Trade Through Role Play (Silviana Falcon)
Represent a country, navigate fluctuating markets, and strategize to maximize profits through the production and sale of geometric paper shapes. This engaging session offers a hands-on approach to understanding the complexities of international trade, economic strategies, and the impact of real-world market forces. Join me to transform theory into practice and gain deep insights into global economic competition.
Racing Racoons: Collaboration and Chaos with Crash Pandas (Dr. Joe Lasley, Samantha Funk, Antonio Ruiz Ezquerro)
Dive into the wild world of "Crash Pandas," where raccoons take on the streets of Los Angeles in a chaotic race. This interactive session explores collaboration and quick thinking as participants work together to navigate the racecourse. Through gameplay, you'll practice improvisation, learn the value of teamwork, and understand when to follow or break the rules for a fair playing field. Be ready for an emotionally engaging experience filled with unpredictable fun and essential learning moments.
Coming next week: Friday PM!
