What are some of the benefits associated with possessing a background in cultural journalism, and game development? This question has been posed to London-based journalist Adam Davis Fernsby on more than one occasion. Mr. Fernsby was gracious enough to speak with us in detail about one of his passions: the inextricable relationship between education and gaming. Let’s see why leisure activities are much more practical than many realise.
Would you be kind enough to tell us a bit about your educational background?
“Of course, I graduated from the University of London with a degree in journalism alongside a minor in game design.”
This seems like a rather odd pairing. How do they fit together from your perspective?
“Well, I always had a passion for board games. I also fell in love with the interpersonal side of journalism. So, why not combine the two when obtaining a quality education?”
How do these skills relate to the modern gaming sector?
“They are actually related in many ways. For instance, game trends often reflect larger societal movements. How games are played can likewise tell us a great deal about human psychology.”
We already know that you’re heavily involved with the cultural impacts of gaming. How does the educational process come into play?
“A considerable portion of my ongoing research involves how games can be used to teach specific skill sets. I thought that this was logical considering the fact that humans always learn from experience.”
You’ve often said that games can teach more than a textbook. What do you mean here?
“I’m referring to active strategies such as proactive problem-solving, collaborating with others, and changing tactics as goals evolve. This is what makes games so interesting.”
Might some textbooks be able to instill these same principles?
“Yes, but to a lesser extent. We need to remember that textbooks are associated with a passive form of learning. This might not appeal to some individuals; especially those forced to delve into topics that do not pique their interest.”
So, you’re saying that there’s a “willing” side to playing games?
“You’re exactly right. People play certain games because they want to. This makes them much more open to digesting new information, and to retaining these skills once the game itself has come to an end.”
Has traditional education overlooked the potential impact of games?
“In the past, without a doubt. Games were considered nothing more than leisure activities. The good news is that this perspective has already begun to change.”
Can you give us an example of a game that teaches novel skills?
“One of my favourites is Pandemic. Players will be required to form partnerships, to face fictionally adverse conditions, and to appreciate the role of resource management. These traits can obviously be translated into the real world.”
Do you also feel that pressure plays a role in the learning process?
“This is another important aspect. Games are normally associated with a limited time frame; often forcing players to make snap decisions. Textbooks are rarely able to create such scenarios.”
We’re now forced to ask another question. Do you feel that textbooks are becoming outdated?
“The written word will never die. There are plenty of benefits associated with textbooks; especially when referring to specific fields such as research, data collection, and medicine.”
We know that you specialise in board game development. Are these particularly effective educational tools?
“Board games provide a tactile edge that isn’t available with digital platforms. This also helps to reinforce the overall learning experience.”
So, does this mean that you discount the iGaming domain?
“I would never go that far. On the contrary, I regularly play Minecraft; one of the best games to teach about resource farming, and long-term strategic planning. It all depends on the genre.”
Is there any hard evidence behind the role of gaming in education?
“Take a moment to think about how children learn basic skills. Playing games is one of the most powerful ways to imprint useful talents at an early age.”
How does social gaming fit into the picture?
“I’m an active member on X, and many of my followers have attested to how certain genres contribute to critical thinking. As these are casual encounters, they feel less like chores, and more like a way to enjoy a bit of ‘down time’.”
What you say makes a great deal of sense. How can educators incorporate these principles?
“They need to develop games that appeal to a specific audience. The games should focus on core traits such as problem solving, innovative thinking, and collaboration. Above all, the games must be fun!”
We’ll play the devil’s advocate for a moment. Are there any downsides to game-based learning?
“There can be instances when games begin to overshadow the learning process. Ideally, educators should strive to achieve a balance between the two.”
How do you feel that emerging technologies such as AI will fit into the picture?
“Artificial intelligence may be able to provide an even more immersive end-user experience. When combined with augmented reality, the educational advantages could skyrocket to the next level.”
What specific advantages can board games provide?
“You’ve come back to my passion,” he says with a pronounced grin. “Board games will also foster intercommunication, they can be used to enhance interpersonal bonds, and they are great ways to teach about competitive principles in a fun setting.”
Do you have anything else to say to our readers before concluding?
“Sit back, relax, and have fun. Either way, the chances are that you’ll be learning a new skill.”
