Getting in the Game: A Case Study of Developing an Esports Program at a Historically Black University
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Abstract
A growing number of institutions on the collegiate level have implemented curriculum and gaming initiatives that coincide with the explosion of the esports industry. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) are one type of institution that has recognized the value of esports in academia and has launched various gaming programs to enrich their collegiate environment. Today an estimated 67 of the nation’s 107 HBCUs offer facets of esports programs. The purpose of this case study was to explore the growth of esports at one HBCU by illustrating three essential areas associated with establishing an esports program. The paper identifies theses three primary areas of establishing an esports program as being organized gameplay, academic programs, and the establishment of an esports facility. Further this academic paper will discuss the process of how the university sanctioned esports team was established, the development of the proposed academic curriculum, and the creation of a new gaming lab on campus.
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