New Friday Morning Games Studies Lecture Series - Fall 2023 Schedule

Mississauga, ON - September 25, 2023

The University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) is known for fostering an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary collaboration. In keeping with this spirit, the Institute of Communication, Culture, Information, and Technology (ICCIT) and the English & Drama Department are proud to announce a brand-new lecture series that's open to all UTM students. What makes this even more appealing is the news that this lecture series will continue into the next semester as well.

Friday Morning Lecture Series: Expanding Horizons in Fall 2023

This engaging lecture series, scheduled for Friday mornings from 9:00 to 10:30 AM in Room IB 345, is set to enrich the academic experience of UTM students. It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into diverse topics related to communication, culture, technology, and the creative arts. Here's a glimpse of what's in store for the Fall 2023 semester:

September 15, 2023: Jordan Sparks - "Grindspark: An/Other and Games for Social Change"

• Presenter: Jordan Sparks (HE/HIM)
• Organization: Grindspark
• Overview: Jordan Sparks will discuss the fascinating intersection of video games and social change, shedding light on the power of gaming as a medium for sparking meaningful conversations and effecting positive societal changes.

September 22, 2023: Liana Kerzner - "Accidental Sexism in Game Design"

• Presenter: Liana Kerzner (SHE/HER)
• Organization: Kerzner Media
• Overview: Liana Kerzner, an industry expert, will tackle the crucial issue of sexism in game design. Her lecture promises to provide valuable insights into how unintentional biases can manifest in the gaming world and how to address them.

September 29, 2023: Adrian Petterson - "Dark Patterns and Disability in Game Design"

• Presenter: Adrian Petterson (THEY/THEM)
• Overview: Adrian Petterson will shed light on the ethical considerations and challenges surrounding the incorporation of dark patterns and their impact on accessibility in game design.

October 6, 2023: Dan Stopnicki - "Narrative in Virtual Reality Gaming"

• Presenter: Dan Stopnicki (HE/HIM)
• Organization: Seed Interactive
• Overview: Dan Stopnicki will explore the immersive world of narrative in virtual reality gaming, offering insights into the creative process and storytelling techniques unique to this medium.

October 13, 2023: Reading Week

• No Class Scheduled

October 20, 2023: Rom Di Prisco - "Sound Design, Audio Production, and Music for Games and Media"

• Presenter: Rom Di Prisco (HE/HIM)
• Overview: Rom Di Prisco, renowned for his work in sound design and music production for games and media, will share his expertise. Attendees can look forward to exploring the auditory dimensions of storytelling and entertainment.

October 27, 2023: Brenda Laurel

• Presenter: Brenda Laurel (SHE/HER)
• Topic: To Be Announced

November 3, 2023: Jeff Pidsadny - "Functional, Useful & Fun Things" (Level Design)

• Presenter: Jeff Pidsadny (HE/HIM)
• Overview: Jeff Pidsadny will delve into the art of level design, emphasizing the balance between functionality, usability, and entertainment value in game design.

November 10, 2023: Kadeem Dunn - "Education in Games"

• Presenter: Kadeem Dunn (HE/HIM)
• Overview: Kadeem Dunn will explore the educational potential of games, shedding light on how games can be used as effective tools for learning and skill development.

November 17, 2023: Sabrina Li - "From Education to Career"

• Presenter: Sabrina Li (SHE/HER)
• Organization: Sledgehammer Games
• Overview: Sabrina Li will share her journey from education to a successful career in the gaming industry, offering valuable insights and advice to aspiring game developers.

A Semester Packed with Knowledge and Inspiration

This lecture series aims to stimulate intellectual curiosity, promote critical thinking, and foster interdisciplinary connections among UTM students. It's an excellent opportunity for students from various academic backgrounds to explore new horizons and gain insights from industry leaders.

Mark Your Calendars and Stay Tuned for More

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to broaden your horizons and engage with thought-provoking topics. Make sure to mark your calendars with the upcoming lecture dates, and keep an eye out for more intriguing lectures scheduled for the next semester.

Remember, this lecture series is open to all UTM students, so be sure to invite your friends and classmates. Stay tuned for updates and further details. We can't wait to see you at the Friday Morning Lecture Series!

Click here to RSVP.

For more information, visit the official UTM website or contact the ICCIT and English & Drama Department.

Disclaimer: Lecture topics, speakers, and schedules are subject to change. Please refer to official UTM channels for the most up-to-date information.