The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG), SparkNC, and Epic Games have created a collaboration with NC high schools to ambitiously grow an Education Innovation Ecosystem across NC that is focused on developing and training a workforce that is prepared with 21st Century durable and technology skills through the integration of education, gaming, and esports. This unique university/K-12/non-profit/industry collaboration is intentionally planning for a gaming integrated curriculum that extends seamlessly from NC high schools directly into higher education degree and credentialing opportunities. Several state-wide initiatives have grown out of this collaboration that provide unique opportunities for educators and students alike. Three such Initiatives are: (1) UNCG E2 Weekends that are centered around an Unreal Engine accelerator experience for high school and university educators and esports tournaments for high school and collegiate students; (2) Spartan Invitational Esports Tournaments for university esports teams within NC; and (3) UNCG Scholastic Esports Alliance which is a state-wide education-based esports league for NC high school students are providing new and exciting game-based learning and problem solving experiences for NC high school and college educators and students as well as competitive experiences that also provide valuable applied learning experiences for NC high school and college students. This education innovative ecosystem is identifying cutting edge ideas for the delivery of STEAM education and applied learning opportunities for high-tech careers that are in demand in NC. With a focus on emerging and transferable skills, this unique collaboration will provide long-term benefit to both North Carolinians and NC businesses. The panel will discuss the mission and goals of the collaboration as well as details about each of the initiatives.
