Esports: Leveling Up Teach-Out (FutureLearn)

Discover the history of the multibillion-dollar esports industry, the ways it has impacted society, and how you can get involved. Explore the global phenomenon of esports. Esports is a phenomenon that has changed the lives of millions of people and challenged the very concept of sport. On this two-week course from the University of Michigan, you’ll explore the esports landscape, learn about its societal impact, and the key opportunities and challenges of the industry.

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Learn about the history of esports and how you can get involved

From a year’s magazine subscription to a prize pool of over $30 million, esports prizes have skyrocketed in its almost 50-year history as competitive gaming has developed into a multibillion-dollar industry.

You’ll explore the history of esports and its evolution into the behemoth it is today. The course will also guide you through the discussion around esports as a ‘real’ sport, comparing and contrasting it in relation to other sports and highlighting the value esports brings.

Delve into the possible careers within the esports industry

Much like in any sport, it takes more than just the players to build a successful team.

On this course, you’ll look at the different roles and careers within esports. From players and coaches to content creators and esports journalists, you’ll explore the myriad of careers available in the industry through interviews with professionals doing those very jobs.

Discover the impact of esports on gaming culture and society at large

Whether it’s a lack of diversity and representation or problematic workplace cultures, there have been many challenges across the history of esports and gaming.

This course will take you through this important conversation, looking at the many aspects of these challenges and how they’ve affected the culture of esports. You’ll also discuss the ways the industry can overcome these challenges and course correct for a fairer, more positive future.

Syllabus

Week 1: What are Esports?

Week 2: Where is the Future of Esports?

Learning on this course

You can take this self-guided course and learn at your own pace. On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

- Explore esports genres and how to watch, play, and compete in esports

- Reflect on the range of careers within the esports landscape

- Identify some societal impacts of esports, including diversity challenges and gaming culture

- Discuss possibilities for the future of the industry
Who is the course for?

This course is designed for anyone interested in learning more about esports, hearing industry and academic perspectives, and finding ways to be involved in the esports landscape.