Information Technology

TLT's IMPACT card game engages players to explore how technology influences life

Penn State’s Teaching and Learning with Technology has launched the educational card game IMPACT, which stands for Inclusive and Multicultural Perspectives with Actions, Characters and Technologies, to engage players in thinking about how technology shapes our daily lives. Credit: Tyler Greer. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Teaching and Learning with Technology has launched IMPACT, an innovative and educational card game designed to engage players in thinking about how technology shapes our daily lives. 

IMPACT, which stands for Inclusive and Multicultural Perspectives with Actions, Characters and Technologies, offers a blend of storytelling and scenario-building. Each game begins with a character card that spotlights one individual and their personal journey. As action cards are added, players are challenged to consider how different technologies would affect the character's society, industry or community.

With its emphasis on human-centric narratives, IMPACT pushes players to see the world through various lenses, fostering rich conversations and critical thinking.

"IMPACT isn't just a game; it's a tool that allows us to engage with students in a unique way," said Zach Lonsinger, project lead for IMPACT. "We get to delve into the intricate ways technology influences diverse communities, facilitating enriching dialogues. And amidst all this exploration, we're genuinely having fun. After all, who said learning can't be both insightful and enjoyable?"

Anyone interested in trying out IMPACT can access the game at impactdeck.psu.edu or through both iOS and Android platforms. A limited supply of physical card decks will be available soon.

For additional guidance through consultations and class facilitation, submit a request at tlt.psu.edu/contact.

Last Updated November 6, 2023