In this special episode hosts Mark Schwanz and Scott Moss tap into the dynamic world of scholastic esports 🏫🕹️ with guests Alvaro Brito, Larry Hood, and Emmanuel Alvarado. They explore the journey of integrating e-sports into the curriculum 📖, the profound impact on student engagement 💡, academic performance 📈, and the development of critical soft skills. The discussion also highlights the challenges and future aspirations of the program 🚀, aiming to foster a well-rounded educational experience through the lens of gaming 🎮. This episode sheds light on the transformative power of e-sports in education and the collaborative efforts to elevate student success both in and out of the classroom 🌟.
Alvaro Brito leads the Innovation Labs, Robotics programs, Esports, and STEAM programs at Compton Unified School District, while also supporting teachers with 21st-century learning methods. He was recognized as the district's Teacher of the Year for his remote teaching and innovation leadership.
Larry Hood, a pioneering educator and esports coach, blends education with artificial intelligence and esports. As a key figure at Compton Early College, ranked #36 in California, he teaches advanced AP Computer Science and Game Design, contributing significantly to its national standing. Hood is a leader in artificial intelligence, focusing on Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPTs), enhancing both learning and practical applications.
In esports, he excels as the strategic coach of successful Rocket League and Super Smash Bros teams, achieving prominence in the High School Esports League and California Interscholastic Federation. His coaching, enriched by AI and game design, fosters skills, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Hood's dual focus on education and esports, powered by his AI expertise, marks him as a notable figure in gaming and education, inspiring future generations.
Emmanuel Alvarado excels as a Verizon STREAM Lab technician, Esports and Robotics FLL coach, and Drone mentor at Whaley Middle School (Compton Unified School District). His expertise in integrating STEAM into the curriculum, alongside fostering competitive gaming, robotics, and drone technology skills, highlights his dedication to enhancing students' learning experiences. Emmanuel's work is pivotal in promoting teamwork, strategic thinking, and innovation, preparing students to excel in dynamic fields and realize their potential in a stimulating educational setting. Whaley MS Esports Whaley STREAM Lab
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Production Notes:
Tech Lasso is produced in collaboration with the Instructional Technology Outreach (ITO) Coordinators with support from the Technology, Learning & Support Services Department.
The views expressed in the podcast are those of the presenters and may not be endorsed by the Los Angeles County Office of Education or the respective organizations of the guests.
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Music: Bensound, MusicFX, Stable Audio
Graphics and Text: Canva, ChatGPT, Gemini
