Dr Andrew Stapleton

Dr Andrew Stapleton is Research Leader of the Multimedia Group within Swinburne University's Faculty of Life and Social Sciences.  Andrew's core focus is on game research and player experience, in particular the design of games to promote conceptual learning.  Recent research projects include investigating the design of games to promote conceptual learning in physics, the development of a research methodology for digital game design, and inquiry into alternative forms of thesis representation.  Andrew holds academic qualifications in condensed matter physics, media studies, science communication and science education, and has presented and been published both nationally and internationally in fields as diverse as physics, design, education and game design.

Alongside his research role, he teaches 'User Experience Design' and 'Physics of Games' which form part of the suite of subjects of Swinburne's Multimedia Courses including the Bachelor of Multimedia (Games and Interactivity).  Andrew also has extensive industry experience within the electronic entertainment industry in broadcast television, interactive television (USA) and multimedia.


Associate Professor Catherine Beavis

Catherine Beavis is an Associate Professor in the School of Social and Cultural Studies in Education, Faculty of Education, Deakin University. She has as a strong research record in the field of literacy education, and is nationally and internationally known for her work on youth culture, literacy, identity and ICTs and the changing nature of English/literacy education.  

She teaches in the areas of literacy, English education, ICTs and Curriculum. Her research interests focus on literacy, popular culture and ICT, the changing nature of literacy and text as reflected in online popular culture, and the implications of young people's engagement with digital culture for  curriculum and pedagogy in schools.

Recent and current research projects include studies of the use of computer games as text in the secondary English classroom, young people's literacy and communication practices as they engage with online multiplayer computer games, intersections between literacy, community and identity in online popular culture and web design, and an investigation into gendered dimensions of computer gaming and the implications of this for curriculum design  incorporating ICTs.

Kathy Harrison

Qualifications:
BSc, DipEd, MEd (ICTE)
Research for Masters degree focused on the effective use of ICT to cater for the needs of gifted and talented learners.

Kathy Harrison has a background in science, maths and engineering. Currently the Coordinator of the Compass Centre at MLC (talent development of highly able students), she also works as an Educational Consultant in the area of gifted and talented education and provides programs for GATEWAYS focusing on maths, science, ICT, Lego robotics along with some interdisciplinary programs.

Other recent projects include establishing a gifted and talented program at Yarra Valley Grammar and being a Resident Scientist in a primary school.

Ian Woodside

Ian has a career in many areas of education - as a secondary teacher, consultant in a School support Centre and as a staff member for a Subject association with a principal role of organising professional development for teachers in the effective use of ICT in the classroom. His special interest is the transfer of the extraordinary motivation characteristics inherent in good games into a sound pedagogical structure providing desirable outcomes in the classroom.