Curtin University\u2019s Addressing Higher Educational Access Disadvantage (AHEAD) program has launched Campus Quest, an online game that gives prospective students a virtual glimpse of life at university.<\/p>\n
Campus Quest helps prepare students for the real university experience, as gamers juggle their allocated time, money, assignments and social life while trying to achieve good marks and have fun.<\/p>\n
Professor Jill Downie Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education said the game was an innovative way to foster the aspirations of people who are traditionally under-represented in higher education.<\/p>\n
\u201cCurtin is committed to increasing the number of people who engage in higher education across Australia, and Campus Quest is a fun way to showcase the university experience,\u201d Professor Downie said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe hear from prospective students, including mature age, that they do not have an accurate perception of what going to university is like and we want them to see that a degree is more than just attending classes.<\/p>\n
\u201cUniversities are becoming more innovative in their teaching and research, so it makes sense that we should also be inventive when reaching out to the next generation of students.\u201d<\/p>\n
In Campus Quest, gamers are able to create an avatar and interact with characters on the virtual campus, from classmates and friends to lecturers and counsellors. The game also includes real-life resources and information about university, such as course information and support services.<\/p>\n
It is hoped Campus Quest will give gamers a greater insight into university life and the inspiration to pursue further education opportunities.<\/p>\n
Curtin AHEAD, supported by the Australian Government Department of Education, is a collaborative and innovative higher education outreach program that grows the potential of groups and individuals that are under-represented in higher education.<\/p>\n
The Curtin AHEAD program has supported school and community projects including tutoring, mentoring, campus visits and workshops to encourage participants to engage with higher education and enhance their future opportunities.<\/p>\n