Shaun McMillan on Turning Lectures into Games

Experience Points

Shaun McMillan on Turning Lectures into Games

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews educational game designer Shaun McMillan about transforming traditional lectures into interactive, game-like experiences. Shaun shares his framework for designing lectures around a single compelling multiple-choice scenario, enabling students to engage deeply with content by making critical decisions. He discusses integrating game mechanics such as voting, uncertainty, and narrative outcomes to enhance didactic instruction. The episode also explores Shaun’s classroom megagame ALLIANCE, a geopolitical simulation for up to 100 players. Shaun emphasizes modular design, accessibility, and the power of storytelling in creating immersive, educational experiences. Learn more at BestClassEver.org.

If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing.

Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you.

I’d also love it if you took some time to rate the show!

I live to lift others with learning. So, if you found this episode useful, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit.

Also make sure to visit University XP online at www.universityxp.com

University XP is also on Twitter @University_XP and on Facebook and LinkedIn as University XP

Also, feel free to email me anytime at [email protected]

Game on!

Get the full transcript and references for this episode here: https://www.universityxp.com/podcast/147

Support the show