In the past few years, issues of gender have become prominent in the discussion around gaming, both as relates to the games themselves and in the larger gaming culture. This symposium aims to critically engage these ongoing narratives, explore how gaming culture can impact broader social spheres, and indicate how gender relations in gaming can be improved going forward through two keynote talks, a series of roundtable discussions, a panel discussion of student gamers, and a game gallery of significant texts. Attendees can expect to participate heavily throughout the day and leave with a deeper understanding of game culture, its social significance, and what its future might entail.

Participation in the symposium is FREE! However, space is limited, so in order to attend you must pre-register using this registration form. Lunch will be provided. http://bit.ly/1WdNvgk

Keynote Speakers:

Rabindra (Robby) Ratan, assistant professor, Department of Media & Information, Michigan State University
"Avatars for Empowerment: A research trajectory aimed toward reducing social disparity in education through avatar use"

Adrienne Shaw, assistant professor, Department of Media Studies and Production, Temple University
"Representation Matters: Reframing arguments for diversity in digital games"

Sponsored by: U-M Library Computer & Video Game Archive; U-M Library Diversity Council; U-M Institute for Humanities; Ann Arbor District Library