Tennessee State University (TSU News Service) reported that the historically black college and university (HBC) is working to attract underrepresented students to careers in coding, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and eSports video games.
According to TSU, more than 30 students were recently introduced to virtual reality applications, game design and coding at the first academic eSports event.
Dr. Robbie Melton, assistant vice president of TSU’s SMART Innovation Technology Center, said the goal of academic esports and coding robotics is to bring video gaming and bring it into the esteemed curriculum of the University.
“We want them (students) to know that they can be gamers and also game creators, so we will introduce game design, basic coding skills, as well as virtual and augmented reality,” Melton said. TSU News Service. “Our goal is to take them from gaming to the world of coding.”
Upon arrival, the students had a virtual session with a professional eSports gamer, who spoke about his professional background and gaming experience. The students then separated into groups to begin their academic eSports day.
The first group of students had fun playing their favorite games in the eSports gaming zone, while others were tasked with coding a robotic ball that ran through a maze.
The third group of students were in a virtual reality center that “takes students into a virtual world so they can now…immerse themselves in teaching and learning,” Melton said.
More than 30 students from the area participated in the Academic eSports Center’s one-day community summer camp. (Photo: Aaron Grayson)
Dr. Effua Ampadu-Moss, director of TSU’s eSports program, said the goal is to recruit students, earn degrees and build careers in the esports industry.
TSU alum Micah Kimble Sr., chief operating officer of Backfield In Motion, said he looks forward to what the center has in store for students.
“I love bringing students to my alma mater,” Kimble Sr. said. children to see something different. I’m really excited for these kids. They will never forget this day.
