When did camp become so cool?
New data put forth by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) shows a promising increase in the availability and popularity of videogame design programs within U.S. summer camps. With more than 100 camps and 690 programs in 26 states, the number of gaming design programs has more than doubled in the past year.
“These programs not only offer students a fun opportunity to learn a range of techniques that prepare them for a promising career in the computer and video game industry, but also enhance comprehension of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) topics,” explains Rich Taylor, Senior Vice President for communications and industry affairs at ESA.
Covering a wide breadth of topics including: marketing, music production, art and animation, writing, programming, and project management, these one- to two-week long courses help to educate and prepare students for promising careers within the digital arena.
Specialty summer camps go beyond bare-bones instruction, adapting to emerging trends and providing classes to address our ever-changing world. New programs offer a variety of subjects to eager students from smartphone app development to Facebook and Google technologies.
Camp sure has changed from when I was a kid. For a complete list of videogame design programs, explore the ESA’s website here.