Jun 21, 2023
Dr. Jonathan Lawrence, Associate Professor in Religious Studies,
is joined by recent Canisius graduates Mylan Hawkins and Abby
Bradley to discuss the use of historical simulation games in their
recent classes. Dr. Lawrence uses Reacting to the Past series
games to teach concepts in the study of world religions, as well as
critical analysis skills common across the liberal arts. He
has written a game focused on Jesuit history, appropriate at
Canisius College but also any course where perspectives on religion
intersect with social class and political institutions.
Hawkins and Bradley provide valuable student perspectives: it is
fun to learn this way, but it was also challenging.
Game-based learning makes rigorous demands on students' research,
analysis, and presentations skills, as well as creativity,
emotional intelligence and collegiality. At the same time, it
compels students to consider the relationship between their
cultures and experiences in the present, and people's problems and
choices in the past. Along the way, they encountered plenty
of surprises, too!
Relevant Links and Resources
Reacting to the Past Consortium
Course Catalog: Religious Studies at Canisius