Before the pandemic, esports was becoming more than just a buzzword amongst K-12 decision makers. Many schools were implementing programs or beginning the necessary research in order to move forward with a program. As with most things, talk of esports halted in February as Covid-19 took precedence and remote and distance learning took center stage.
However, esports is still a hot topic. In the age of K-12 remote learning, and with many physical sports being postponed for the 2020-2021 season, now is as good a time as ever to incorporate esports into your K-12 environment!
Why Esports?
In 2019, esports revenue exceeded $1 billion worldwide, and is estimated to double over the next 4 years. Because of massive growth, over 70% of schools are looking to implement esports programs into their curriculum.
The soft skills that students learn in esports, just like in any other athletic sport, will have direct application for success after graduation when applying to colleges and for lucrative jobs.
Benefits Include:
- Digital Citizenship
- Student Led Learning
- Increased Diversity and Engagement
- Expanded Career Opportunities
- Strategic, Critical Thinking, and Collaboration Skills
- Esports Recruitment & Scholarships
Esports and Social Distancing
One of the main concerns around students and remote learning is the lack of socialization amongst peers. As we know, one of the big benefits of incorporating esports in K-12 is its proven ability to help boost student engagement. Unlike other collaborative sports (most having been tabled for the foreseeable future), esports are practical competitive activities that can be participated in remotely.
Flexible, safe, ergonomic environments for esports can also be created for schools that are meeting in person by developing labs that promote social distancing while maintaining comfortable and collaborative meeting spaces that attract and promote more interest into your esports team.
Even in the midst of a pandemic, students can still thrive and participate in sports that can help them with soft learning skills and create opportunities for higher education and lucrative careers.
If you’re interested in learning more about esports, Virtucom is here to help.