The course “Gender & Inclusion Considerations in Video Games” explores the role of video games as cultural and social tools that can promote inclusivity and challenge stereotypes. It emphasizes equal representation in gaming, addressing issues like sexualization, stereotyping, and the assignment of meaningful roles to female characters to foster deeper narratives and engagement.
The course also examines character customization as a means of enhancing personal connection and inclusivity by allowing players to reflect their identities in avatars. It discusses the importance of inclusive language in gaming communities to create respectful and diverse environments, highlighting strategies like clear community guidelines, active moderation, and education.
Practical applications include analyzing gender representation in specific games, designing inclusive characters, and developing narratives that address societal issues. The course concludes with a call to embrace inclusivity in gaming to drive social change and create a more equitable gaming culture.
Bibliography:
Burgess, M. C. R., Dill, K. E., Stermer, S. P., Burgess, S. R., & Brown, B. P. (2011). Playing With Prejudice: The Prevalence and Consequences of Racial Stereotypes in Video Games. Media Psychology, 14(3), 289-311.
Downs, E., & Smith, S. L. (2010). Keeping Abreast of Hypersexuality: A Video Game Character Content Analysis. Sex Roles, 62(11-12), 721-733.
Ivory, J. D. (2006). Still a Man’s Game: Gender Representation in Online Reviews of Video Games. Mass Communication and Society, 9(1), 103-114.
Williams, D., Martins, N., Consalvo, M., & Ivory, J. D. (2009). The Virtual Census: Representations of Gender, Race and Age in Video Games. New Media & Society, 11(5), 815-834.
