FROG Deep Dive Panel
As gaming continues to grow as a cultural and social phenomenon, its potential in youth work becomes increasingly significant. This panel discussion discusses the multifaceted role of gaming in youth work, exploring how it can be harnessed as a powerful tool for engagement, education, and social development.
We begin by examining the integration of gaming in youth work settings, highlighting successful case studies and innovative practices that utilize gaming to foster community, creativity, and personal growth. Our discussion will address practical approaches to implementing gaming programs that resonate with youth, particularly those who may be disengaged from traditional activities.
The conversation then shifts to the influence of gaming on the perception of gender and queerness. We explore how gaming environments can both challenge and reinforce gender stereotypes, and how youth workers can facilitate inclusive and supportive spaces that celebrate diverse identities. By reflecting on the narratives and representations within games, we discuss strategies to promote critical thinking and inclusivity among young gamers.
Furthermore, we tackle the complex relationship between gaming and extremism. While acknowledging the potential for radicalization through certain gaming communities, we also highlight the proactive measures youth workers can take to mitigate these risks, or even to use videogames as a tool for promoting democratic values, encouraging critical dialogue, and fostering resilience against extremist ideologies. By leveraging the social and collaborative aspects of gaming, youth work can cultivate a sense of agency and civic responsibility in young people.
Throughout the panel, we emphasize the unique perspective of youth work, which combines empathy, creativity, and a deep understanding of young people’s needs and interests. We encourage participants to share their experiences and insights, fostering a collaborative dialogue on the transformative potential of gaming in youth work.
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that aims to redefine the boundaries of youth work through the lens of gaming, exploring its challenges, opportunities, and profound impact on youth culture and development.
Panelists
Alexander Fontó
Mag. Alexander Fontó, BA is a social worker and social pedagogue. He works at the Extremism Advice Centre in the field of exit and distancing from extremism and holds workshops and training courses on the topics of extremism, radicalization and prevention. He was also the educational director for the EU project “GameD- Gaming for Democracy in the context of contemporary forms of extremism”. He also teaches part-time at the University of Applied Sciences for Social Work in St. Pölten.
Paula Gludovatz
With 13 years of experience in youth work, Paula Gludovatz is specialized in gaming, gender, and diversity advocating for inclusivity and empowerment through interactive media. Her work has centered on creating spaces that foster critical thinking and equality among young people. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in “Game-Based Media Education” at the University for Continuing Education Krems, exploring how games can be used as powerful educational tools to address social issues and promote learning. Her passion lies in leveraging gaming to inspire change and cultivate an understanding of gender dynamics in the modern world.
Susanne Studeny
Susanne Studeny, MA is a social information scientist and social worker, certified data protection officer, certified eLearning manager and knowledge manager. She is a researcher and teach with a focus on digitalization in social work. Focus on digital strategies, digital living environments, gaming, artificial intelligence. She has managed the SaiNetz – Social Work on the Net project for over 12 years. She also teaches “Social Work in Digital Living Environments” at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria.
Moderation
WienXtra
TBA
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