Business
BY CHLOE YOUNG
NextGen Academy o ers education through esports and AI New private school NextGen Academy is aiming to accelerate students’ academic growth by motivating them through playing esports. In August, the esports academy opened to four fth- through eighth-grade students in Northwest Austin. Students complete their courses using an AI platform known as 2 Hour Learning, and learn life skills by competing in esports and developing video games. “Kids that are not typically motivated by the traditional school system absolutely love walking into these doors every day, because they’ve got the coolest environment,” said Beau Sydes, head of school for NextGen Academy. How it works For four hours per day, students engage with their favorite video games such as “Minecraft” and “Fortnite” at the school’s professional-grade esports arena. Students use esports to showcase their teamwork, communication, public speaking and nancial literacy skills. To access these gaming experiences, students must complete two hours of coursework using an AI program that helps students learn at an accelerated pace. Instead of traditional teachers, classes are led by guides who specialize in building relationships with students and providing motivational support. By teaching students through esports, NextGen Academy can better relate to, motivate and reward students for their growth, Sydes said.
Fifth- through eighth-grade students participate in esports and AI-driven learning alongside guides.
PHOTOS BY CHLOE YOUNG COMMUNITY IMPACT
N. LAKE CREEK PKWY.
183A TOLL
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13915 US-183, Austin www.nextgenacademy.school
Students compete in esports and develop video games to learn life skills.
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