About GameDesk

GameDesk was created to develop a “next generation” model of education, revolutionizing the way we teach and learn.

We are a research, game development, and outreach organization that has evolved out of seven years of research at the University of Southern California. We have developed, tested and evaluated next generation digital learning software and curriculum for use in schools, community centers, and homes throughout the United States.

The organization’s focus is to help close the achievement gap and to engage students, particularly those that are low-proficient, in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning. GameDesk embeds STEM content into game-centered projects with a strong focus on fostering students’ sense of purpose, ownership, and personal relevance.

To successfully support students, the culture of learning must be changed. It is the organization’s philosophy that digital games and media technologies have a unique power to engage and motivate. By leveraging these technologies effectively, students have been proven to develop an appreciation for STEM learning, team-building, and a belief in themselves that carries over into all aspects of their lives.

The GameDesk Institute is an association of teachers, scholars, game-designers, school administrators, writers, engineers, artists, and career specialists who work to develop and implement GameDesk methodology and materials. The organization seeks to grow and nurture a pipeline of individuals who understand cyber, interactive, mobile, and game-based learning.



GameDesk is a 501(c)3 nonprofit research and outreach organization that seeks to reshape models for learning through game-play and game development.

The organization looks to help close the achievement gap and engage students to learn core STEM curriculum. It develops project-based learning with a strong focus on purpose, ownership, and personal value.

The organization (originally developed out of research and support at the University of Southern California's IMSC) has now been in development, practice, and/or evaluation for over two years in various schools in the Los Angeles area.


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