Enhancing Empathy for Teachers through Interactive Video Game Mechanics

This project explores the power of game mechanics to cultivate empathy for educators by simulating the multifaceted challenges of teaching. While aspiring teachers may feel prepared through formal education, the realities of the profession, such as managing unpredictable classroom dynamics, asserting authority, and juggling a multitude of tasks—often reveal unexpected complexities. These struggles, though common, are rarely discussed openly for fear of discouraging prospective educators, leaving them unprepared for the realities of the field. Through the development of a serious game, I aim to illuminate these challenges in a controlled yet immersive environment. The game’s mechanics are meticulously designed to replicate the day-to-day experiences of educators, including classroom management, decision-making, and the cumulative stressors of the profession. By placing players in the role of a teacher, the gameplay invites them to grapple with these realities, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the work of educators. Playtesting has been integral to this process, engaging teachers, non-teachers, and students to evaluate the game’s effectiveness in increasing empathy and awareness. Feedback will be collected through surveys, interviews, and behavioral observations, yielding valuable qualitative data to refine the experience. This project underscores the potential of serious games as tools for social insight and transformation. By simulating real-life scenarios, the game bridges the gap between perception and reality, creating an avenue for meaningful dialogue about the complexities of teaching. As this work evolves, future iterations will incorporate playtesting results, expanding the scope and refining the mechanics to enhance its impact. Through this game, I strive to spark conversations about the teaching profession and advocate for a greater appreciation of the dedication and resilience it demands.