Not too long ago, professors Stan Altman and Brian Schwartz only knew that their students had a keen interest in video games. Today, they harness these games to equip kids with skills relevant to the real world.

Collaborating with the Harlem Gallery of Science, a nonprofit that motivates students to follow career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), they also focus on nurturing social and emotional skills in young learners.

Altman and Schwartz were on a quest to bring more students of color into STEM fields and speculated whether the students’ fascination with video games could be a catalyst. Their research revealed an intriguing insight: Many young individuals play games to hone various skills, the very skills that universities advocate as essential for the 21st century. With this understanding, they set out to inform fellow educators about this potential.

HGS curated a mobile exhibition titled “Video Games: The Great Connector,” which showcases how gaming enables kids to forge connections within themselves, their communities, and their futures. The exhibition includes video games, interactive activities, and art stations to convey these ideas. The initial run was a success, drawing thousands of attendees, including students, educators, and parents. The exhibition is currently touring local schools.

Project manager Matthew Lopez embodies the program’s success. A former participant, Lopez values how gaming fosters social growth among kids. He highlights the drawing station, where children depict favorite video game characters and discuss their choices. This activity is particularly impactful for children from diverse New York City neighborhoods like the South Bronx and Harlem.

Lopez observes connections emerge as students create artwork of characters with whom they identify, noting the significance of seeing themselves in these characters. They appreciate characters not only for their appeal but also because they resonate with shared appearances, languages, and life experiences.

Schools or educations interested in hosting the exhibit can find more info at the Harlem Gallery of Science site.