Public Engagement Through the Development of Science-Based Computer Games: The Wellcome Trust’s “Gamify Your PhD” Initiative
Abstract
New developments in digital technologies are enabling scientists to explore novel avenues of engagement beyond face-to-face approaches. “Gamifying” science through the creation of computer games based on scientific research is part of this trend. Recently, the Wellcome Trust held a competitive “hackfest” called “Gamify Your PhD.” Six finalists were selected to develop their research into a computer game with the help of professional games developers. I was able to observe this event with the aim of exploring the collaboration between scientists and games developers and observing how science-based computer games can be used to engage the wider public.
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Biographies
Vickie Curtis is a full-time doctoral student at the Open University in the United Kingdom. She is exploring how digital technologies are changing public engagement in the sciences, with a focus on online citizen science projects.
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Article first published online: June 20, 2013
Issue published: June 2014
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© 2013 SAGE Publications.
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Published online: June 20, 2013
Issue published: June 2014
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Vickie Curtis
The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
Notes
Vickie Curtis, Institute of Educational Technology, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK. Email: [email protected]
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