**Integrating Esports into Education: Verizon Innovative Learning Program**
Esports is a rapidly growing industry that has captured the attention of students across the country. With the rise of competitive gaming, student teams are quickly forming and showcasing their skills in various tournaments and leagues. In an effort to harness this growing interest and use it to benefit students in the classroom, Verizon has introduced the innovative Verizon Innovative Learning Program.
**The 4Cs: How Esports Promotes Student Development**
One of the key aspects of esports is the development of what educators often refer to as the 4Cs: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. These skills are not only essential in the world of competitive gaming but also in the academic and professional realms. Through participating in esports leagues and competitions, students have the opportunity to hone these skills in a fun and engaging way, preparing them for success in the classroom and beyond.
**How Esports Can Help Students in the Classroom**
Contrary to popular belief, esports can have a positive impact on students’ academic performance. By integrating gaming and esports into the curriculum, educators can create a more engaging and interactive learning environment. For example, teachers can use game-based learning to teach complex concepts in a more hands-on and relatable manner. Additionally, esports can help students develop important skills such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, and teamwork, which are transferable to their academic pursuits.
Verizon’s innovative approach to incorporating esports into education is evident in the launch of a free scholastic high school esports league through its Verizon Innovative Learning HQ portal. This league, which opened for registration in early August, aims to provide students with the opportunity to participate in competitive gaming while also receiving coaching guidance from esports professionals. By partnering with nonprofit Games for Change, Verizon is ensuring that participating schools have access to the resources and support needed to succeed in the world of esports.
In addition to the esports league, Verizon Innovative Learning HQ offers a range of resources for educators looking to integrate gaming and esports into their classrooms. From professional development collections to ready-to-use toolkits and lessons, teachers have access to a wealth of content that can help them bring the excitement of esports into K-12 classrooms. Furthermore, immersive content and video resources showcase esports careers and provide students with valuable insights into the industry.
Verizon’s commitment to digital equity and inclusion in education is evident in its investment of over $1 billion to support innovative learning initiatives across the country. Through programs like Verizon Innovative Learning Schools and Verizon Innovative Learning Labs, the company is empowering students and teachers with access to next-gen technologies and experiential learning tools. By expanding its reach to more Title I schools and providing resources for 24/7 learning, Verizon is ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.
In partnership with nonprofit Digital Promise, Verizon is expanding its Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program to welcome 34 new Title I schools. This expansion will provide students and teachers with devices and data to support learning both in and out of the classroom. Additionally, Verizon is opening 18 new Verizon Innovative Learning Labs in Title I schools, giving students access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning experiences.
The Verizon Innovative Learning Program is not only transforming education through esports but also through partnerships with organizations like Discovery Education, McGraw Hill, and PhET Interactive Simulations. By providing access to augmented reality apps, AR activities, and interactive simulations, Verizon is enhancing the learning experience for students across the country. Through these initiatives, Verizon is empowering educators with the tools and resources needed to prepare students for success in the digital age.
As technology continues to advance, so does Verizon’s commitment to supporting educators and students. By introducing new programs, partners, and content, Verizon is ensuring that students have access to the latest educational resources and opportunities. From gaming to esports to immersive learning, Verizon is leading the way in transforming education and preparing students for success in the 21st century.
