Building Student Engagement:
Choice, Debate, and Gamified Learning in the Classroom
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
11:30 am – 12:45 pm
Kuykendall 106 Events Room
How can we shift students from apathy to excitement about coming to class and engaging with the course material? Many instructors have experienced the moment of asking a question and being met with silence, or finding that only a few students are participating.
This workshop introduces techniques for using games, structured debate, and role-play simulations to transform classroom dynamics and create more meaningful learning experiences. Drawing on examples from the presenter’s experience teaching history courses using game-based pedagogies and debates, participants will explore how a more student-centered classroom can foster greater interaction and encourage students to take a more active role in learning. Through brief, hands-on activities and classroom examples, participants will see how debates and simulations build motivation, cultivate connection, and create more memorable learning experiences.
Presented by
Peter Bushell
Adjunct Lecturer & PhD Candidate, History
This event is sponsored by the OFDAS Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE).
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We strive to host inclusive and accessible presentations. Some events are in person, others online. For online, live captioning will be provided. To request additional accommodations, please email us before the event. Mahalo!