Learning By Design Conference
Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, at the CCIU Educational Service Agency
Level up your teaching at the Learning by Design Conference—where secondary educators unlock the power of game-based and scenario-based learning to boost engagement, spark critical thinking, and transform the classroom. Experience innovative strategies, student-designed games, and cutting-edge solutions from speakers and sponsors—all designed to inspire, empower, and reimagine what’s possible in education.
Dr. Kat Schrier (she/they)
Full Professor, Director of the Play Innovation Lab, and Director of the Games and Emerging Media program at Marist College.
Keynote Presentation
Playing with Heart: Games for Learning, Care, and Connection
In this keynote, you’ll discover how games can be powerful tools not only for learning, but also for fostering care, connection, and compassion. You’ll gain insight into how emotionally rich game experiences help students practice empathy, reflect on moral choices, and engage with diverse perspectives. You’ll explore examples of games that invite belonging and inclusion, while also learning how to navigate the pitfalls of game-based teaching with care. Walk away with strategies to harness games as a way to build knowledge, strengthen relationships, and cultivate our shared humanity.
