What is esports?
Esports, short for electronic sports, is organized, competitive video gaming. Esports is different than traditional video gaming. Esports is competitive (human-vs-human) and usually has an engaging spectator element to it, like traditional sports. Just like traditional sports, esports requires teamwork, communication, critical and strategic thinking, creativity, sportsmanship, and leadership.
However, unlike traditional sports, where sports teams are split by gender, esports is gender neutral. All players, regardless of their gender expression, are welcome to play alongside of one another. Moreover, in addition to gender neutrality, esports is also open to all, regardless of physical ability.
Esports require players to participate in games of skill and there's no ability to utilize unfair advantages, such as paying to enhance game play. The game titles are video games selected by the community. Certain game titles can be played as collaborative teams whereas other game titles are individual players pitted against each other in various modes to complete an objective. Rules and strategies can differ greatly depending on the game title. Pro gamers often specialize in one specific game, just like professional athletes specialize in one specific sport.
Explaining esports to a parent/guardian or teacher
Where is esports going?
The growing popularity of esports across student populations is recognized as having the potential to be a powerfully engaging tool to reach a diverse array of students. It can be used to create an inclusive, welcoming learning environment, enhancing students’ abilities to collaborate, solve real problems, and learn in meaningful ways. Teachers can start blending games-based learning practices and esports into their curriculum right now. The benefits of starting an esports program extend beyond the walls of your classroom and into the lives of your students.
Now that the multi-billion-dollar esports industry is beginning to be globally recognized, U.S. colleges and universities are offering over 350 esports scholarships. The impact l of esports participation is vast and the impact on potential career opportunities is far greater than most imagine. The opportunities for careers stemming from esports participation is rapidly expanding.
Blending esports into everyday curriculum is pedagogically sound and achievable for teachers everywhere. Check out this video to see how esports can be applied in education.
Extra resources
For more information, check out the following resources on esports: