Video games have really exploded in the last two decades, with dozens of games released every quarter and new players looking up a MAME roms pack in order to play the classics. Whether these are new gamers, or experienced ones, there is always a variety of choices on the market to suit their needs. It is also easy to find blogs on each game and even guides to tips and tricks to succeed in each game, check out this summoners war monster guide for an example! Contrary to popular belief from the media, there are many positive things one can learn from playing a video game and that’s where today’s guest comes in.

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Barr chats with us about his research with video games, creating a work-based element in higher education, and telling too many dad jokes.

Matt shares how he accidentally enrolled in the wrong degree program, what he calls the “art of failing,” and why we need to stop wasting time over-preparing for things.

'I prepare enough, but now I just go with the flow.' - @hatii_matt from episode 128 of #TeachBetterTalk #Podcast #TeachBetter Click To Tweet

Episode Highlights

1:15 – Talking about Rae’s sister and her veterinary program.
5:30 – Previewing the episode with Matt Barr.
8:40 – Matt introduces himself.
9:35 – Diving into Matt’s research into video games.
11:57 – Matt’s failure: Accidentally enrolling in geology.
17:13 – Matt’s success: Students taking positive things away from games, and getting positive coverage in the press.
22:02 – What’s keeping Matt excited about education: Their apprenticeship degree program.
26:55 – Matt’s advice for teachers: Don’t overthink it. Don’t waste energy on over-preparing.
29:39 – 6 questions answered in 15 seconds or less.
34:03 – How to connect with Matt.

Matt’s Recommendations

EdTech Tool: Recorder app on his phone.
Book: “The Secret Commonwealth” by Philip Pullman. “Video Gamers and Games in Therapy” by Antony Bean.
Who to Follow on Instagram:
1. Dr Vicki Dale – @vhmdale
2. Dr Nathalie Sheridan – @drnsheridan
3. @femedtech
YouTube/Podcast/Website/Blog: The Higher Education section of the Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/education/higher-education) and the Imgflip.com meme generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator).
Daily/Weekly/Monthly Routine: Reflect.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received: Learn to say ‘no’!