This project proposes an achievement system based on the ideal that the behaviors of successful students are not just measured by academic success, but is rather a culmination of social, creative, collaborative, and academic behaviors. The goal is to develop a game-based achievement system that helps our students navigate the intellectual, social, and developmental challenges of their undergraduate experience, and provides them with a clearer picture of their progress.  The first phase is the design and development of a small-scale, "proof of concept" pilot project to address the very specific needs of undergraduate students in a games-focused department at a technical university, such as the Interactive Games and Media unit at the Rochester Institute of Technology.  The process will serve as a starting point for understanding the core issues involved in creating a "game layer" to enhance the educational experience. This effort is funded through a gift from Microsoft Research Connections.

Microsoft Research Project web page
Research page on Just Press Play web site
Pope Center article on the project