E-sports in Education: Fostering Inclusion and Future-Ready Skills with Dr. Evgenii (Summer Series 24')

In this final installment of the Edulearn AMA Summer Series, we are joined by Dr. Evgenii Permiakov, an Educational Technology Coach at Korea International School. We delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), wellness, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) in education, with a particular focus on the role of e-sports. Dr. Permiakov shares his experiences working in international educational settings and explains how E-sports goes beyond gaming to create inclusive, community-building experiences for students. He reflects on his journey of integrating E-sports into educational environments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when E-sports became a vital tool for connecting socially isolated students through their favorite games.  Dr. Permiakov emphasizes that E-sports offers a structured and disciplined environment that teaches accountability and teamwork, often breaking down traditional barriers between students of different grades and genders. He highlights the importance of building an ecosystem around E-sports, from starting with simple platforms like Minecraft to engaging in competitive matches with schools around the world. Additionally, Dr. Permiakov offers practical advice for educators looking to integrate E-sports into their curricula, including an "E-sports starter kit." He also addresses the growing support from parents, who recognize the academic and social benefits of E-sports participation. The episode wraps up with a call to action for educators to explore innovative avenues like E-sports to foster inclusion, wellness, and future-ready skills in their students.  Episode Highlights:   [2:00] Dr. Evgenii Permiakov's Background  Based in South Korea as an Educational Technology Coach at Korea International School.[2:21]  Passionate about E-sports in education, videography, media production, podcasting, and is a father of two boys. [3:01]   [3:40] E-sports in Education  E-sports is an inclusive activity that helps students find their community.[4:05] [6:30] Building an E-sports Ecosystem  Started with creating a Minecraft campus during lockdown, which evolved into competitive E-sports activities. [6:47]  Shift in thinking to realize the importance of building connection/socializing [8:32]  Laying the foundation for E-sports [9:07]  [11:52] Educator Involvement and Resources  Educators interested in E-sports should consider the “why, who, and how”. [12:25]  Competition is the key. [14:30]  Dr. Permiakov offers guidance and shares resources like an "E-sports starter kit" for those looking to start E-sports programs. [17:10]  [17:56] Parental Perception and Support  Parents appreciate the structured and disciplined environment E-sports provides [18:45]  E-sports participation requires students to manage their responsibilities and prioritize effectively.[19:17]  Becoming an E-sports athlete. [20:00]  Soft skills learned through E-sports [23:27]  [24:54] E-sports for Younger Students  Non-violent games for younger students [25:43]  Minecraft Education challenges [27:25]  Middle school and high school potential for scholarships and career readiness. [31:00]  Quotes from Dr. Evgenii Permiakov:  "E-sports is about being an inclusive activity that can involve people who do not need to be gamers." [4:15]  "E-sports brings an element of discipline and teamwork, accountability and responsibility. [19:17]  Connect with Evgenii LinkedIn – Evgenii Permiakov  YouTube – Evgenii Permiakov  Twitter - @edtechii  Connect With Kailyn Fullerton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaifull/ X: @kaifull Website: www.upstream-collaborative.org Connect with Celiah Bunsie LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Celiah Bunsie⁠⁠⁠⁠  Connect With Dana Specker Watts  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaspeckerwatts/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/teachwatts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect With Mike LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-pierre/⁠⁠