Game Jams as Learning Tools for Up/Re-Skilling in Interactive Digital Technologies

Project Lead

Team Members

Rebecca de Heuvel

Sub-Theme: Transforming Immigrant Employment Pathways

The interrelated projects under this sub-theme each examine a different dimension of how ADTs, particularly those powered by artificial intelligence, are transforming immigrant employment pathways in Canada.

Objective

The project uses game jams as a structured, inclusive learning environment to reskill Montreal-based immigrants in interactive digital technologies. Through scaffolded workshops and hands-on game development experiences, participants will gain both technical competencies (e.g., coding, design, and sound production) and essential soft skills (e.g., teamwork and leadership), facilitating their integration into the local job market. By partnering with local non-profit GAMERella, which has a proven track record of fostering diversity and equity in game development, the project creates a welcoming, supportive learning environment tailored to individuals historically excluded from the industry. The emphasis on pre-jam workshops ensures participants build confidence and practical skills before engaging in the intensive game jam setting, mirroring real-world industry workflows.

Research Question

How can scaffolded game-making workshops and game jams be used to re-skill Montreal-based immigrants in interactive digital technologies, including the areas of game coding, game design, game art, sound, and writing, as well as teamwork and leadership?

Methodology

Approximately 50-60 subjects will be recruited for game workshops and the game jam. The project will employ multiple research methodologies, including a close-ended survey, semi-structured qualitative interviews, and analysis of game jam games.