As someone deeply committed to digital inclusion and the transformative potential of technology, my journey has been shaped by my extensive experience in gaming, esports, and sustainability. Through my virtual ethnography at the University of Portsmouth and my work with IFB Gaming and initiatives like Empowering Futures, I have witnessed firsthand how gaming can serve as a powerful tool for engagement and education. By harnessing the skills developed in these environments, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and connected society.
In this update, I want to explore the vital role that gaming and esports play in driving digital inclusion and how we can leverage these platforms to empower communities and individuals for a brighter future.Video games, gaming, and esports have a surprising but significant role in digital inclusion, especially in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. The skills and experiences gained through gaming can be transferable to digital inclusion in several meaningful ways:
1. Digital Literacy and Competence
Gaming often requires individuals to engage with various digital platforms, devices, and software, naturally enhancing digital literacy. For communities facing barriers to technology, gaming can be an entry point to develop the confidence and skills necessary to navigate broader digital environments. This includes basic skills like using a computer or navigating the internet, which are fundamental to digital inclusion.
2. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Many video games and esports involve complex problem-solving, strategy, and critical thinking—skills that are highly valuable in digital environments. These cognitive abilities foster an adaptable mindset, which is critical for individuals learning new technologies in real-world digital inclusion programmes.
3. Collaboration and Communication
Online gaming, particularly in esports, often requires players to work in teams and communicate effectively in real-time. This experience mirrors the collaborative nature of many digital inclusion efforts, where digital tools are used to foster community engagement and bridge gaps between different social groups.
4. Access to Technology
Gaming platforms can also help democratise access to technology. In many cases, gaming consoles or mobile games provide affordable entry points into digital worlds for those who may not have access to more expensive, high-end technology. Community-based gaming initiatives can be part of broader digital inclusion strategies that ensure equitable access to technology.
5. Engagement and Motivation
Video games are inherently engaging, offering a gamified approach to learning digital skills. In digital inclusion programmes, this aspect can be used to motivate participants to improve their tech skills in a fun and interactive way.
Esports as an Olympic Sport
The rise of esports has been meteoric, and the concept of esports becoming an Olympic sport has been a topic of discussion for several years. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been cautiously exploring the inclusion of esports, recognising the growing global impact of gaming and the skills it represents.
In 2021, the IOC launched the Olympic Virtual Series, which featured virtual sports such as motorsports, baseball, and cycling. While this was a significant step, esports has not yet been fully incorporated into the Olympics, partly due to concerns over which games to include and whether they align with the values of the Olympic movement. However, the dialogue continues, and as esports matures, its inclusion seems increasingly possible, especially with the rise of sports-related video games that mirror traditional Olympic events.
As the conversation around esports continues to evolve, it’s important to note that the UK has yet to officially participate in any Olympic esports events. While the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been exploring the inclusion of esports, particularly with the launch of the Olympic Virtual Series in 2021, which featured various virtual sports, traditional esports titles were not included.
Despite this, the UK boasts a vibrant esports community, with numerous players and teams excelling in various competitions around the world. The ongoing dialogue about incorporating esports into the Olympic framework presents an exciting opportunity for the UK to establish its presence on this global stage.
As the esports landscape grows, the UK is investing in the necessary infrastructure and support for its esports ecosystem, which may pave the way for future representation at the Olympics or similar prestigious events. This evolving narrative underscores the potential for esports to not only entertain but also to unite communities and foster a sense of national pride.
The Emergence of the British Esports Association
The British Esports Association (BEA) was founded in 2016 as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting esports in the UK. Its mission is to foster the growth of esports in the UK, particularly among young people, and to support the development of esports as a legitimate career path. BEA works with schools, colleges, and other educational institutions to integrate esports into curriculums and extra-curricular activities.
The BEA has been instrumental in highlighting the educational and social benefits of esports, such as improving teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking skills. It also provides opportunities for students to explore career paths in esports, such as broadcasting, coaching, and game development, alongside traditional careers like IT and marketing.
Esports in Schools and Communities
Esports is increasingly being integrated into schools and communities, not only as a recreational activity but also as a learning tool. Many schools in the UK, the US, and other parts of the world now have dedicated esports programmes. These initiatives allow students to engage in competitive gaming, fostering teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
In schools, esports is used to bridge the digital divide, providing access to technology and engaging students who may not be drawn to traditional sports or academic clubs. In communities, esports hubs are emerging, offering young people a safe and inclusive environment to socialise, compete, and develop their digital skills.
Transferable Skills from Esports to Digital Inclusion
Many of the skills developed through esports—such as digital fluency, critical thinking, and teamwork—are directly transferable to digital inclusion efforts. Esports players, for example, become proficient in navigating digital platforms, understanding online communities, and leveraging technology to collaborate and compete. These are the very same skills required to thrive in today’s increasingly digital society.
Esports and gaming provide a valuable pathway for people to engage with technology in ways that build the confidence and competence needed to navigate the digital world. When combined with targeted digital inclusion strategies, they can play an essential role in ensuring more people have the opportunity to succeed in the digital economy.
As we look to the future, the intersection of gaming, esports, and digital inclusion holds tremendous promise. By harnessing the engaging power of gaming and the collaborative spirit of esports, we can drive meaningful change in our communities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a digital-first world.
The conversations around esports as a potential Olympic sport highlight the growing recognition of gaming’s significance in our society. As the UK continues to develop its esports infrastructure and support systems, we have the chance to foster a culture that values inclusivity, innovation, and community empowerment.
Together, let us champion the movement for digital inclusion, leveraging the unique skills and experiences gained through gaming and esports to create a brighter, more connected future for all.