EP #003: In this episode of Untanglement, host Mark Burke is joined by Dr. Karl Kapp, an expert in learning gamification. They explore the intersection of games, play, and professional development. Dr. Kapp discusses the importance of integrating training and development into the fabric of an organization to create a sense of ownership and engagement among employees. By making learning a priority, organizations can empower their workforce and drive positive change. Tune in to this insightful conversation on making the complex simple and unlocking the potential of professional development.

LISTENER TAKEAWAY

We had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Karl Kapp, a Danville resident expert in learning gamification, live from our poditorium in Danville, Pennsylvania. We delved into the fascinating world of games and play and their significant impact on professional development.

Dr. Kapp shared his insights on how learning and development touch every aspect of an organization and the critical role they play in employee engagement. He emphasized the importance of practice in professional development and how organizations often overlook this crucial element. According to Dr. Kapp, consistent practice and reflection are key to mastering skills and staying engaged.

We also explored the concept of games as a learning tool. Dr. Kapp illustrated how games can simulate real-world scenarios, allowing employees to practice skills in a safe environment where failure leads to learning rather than real-world consequences. He provided compelling examples, including how BP's game in the 1970s predicted an oil rig explosion and how the CIA used games to strategize the capture of El Chapo.

During the episode, we engaged with our live audience, discussing the challenges and successes of implementing practice and play within their organizations. We heard from educators and consultants who shared their struggles and aspirations in creating engaging learning experiences.

Dr. Kapp offered practical advice on how to gamify various aspects of professional development, from elevating a team member's process thinking to enhancing cultural awareness training. He suggested using analogies and creating games that encourage critical thinking and collaboration, tailored to the organization's culture and the audience's preferences.

As we wrapped up the episode, we reflected on the power of purpose-driven activities and how games can serve as a social accelerant, fostering deeper connections and conversations among participants.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this episode of Untanglement. We hope you found the discussion on the untangled path of games in professional development both enlightening and inspiring. Remember to tune in to Untanglement on your favorite podcast platform and visit us at MYNDDSET.com for more information on our event, learning, and production services. Until next time, keep untangling!

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00:05] Introduction

[00:01:52] Impact of Learning and Development

[00:02:33] Training and Remote Work Dynamics

[00:03:09] The Importance of Practice in Organizations

[00:04:56] Games as Learning Tools

[00:06:13] Historical Use of Games in Strategy

[00:07:50] Games for Organizational Learning

[00:08:01] Community Perspective on Professional Development

[00:09:17] Audience Insights on Practice and Play

[00:10:13] Time Management and Organizational Values

[00:11:03] Simple and Quick Gaming Solutions

[00:12:07] The Role of Games in Large Organizations

[00:15:58] Peer Challenge in Game Environments

[00:17:01] Game Design for Process Learning

[00:18:07] Games for Cultural Training

[00:19:01] Games for Consultant Development

[00:20:21] Social Accelerant Through Games

[00:21:41] Customizing Games for Different Audiences

[00:22:58] Games for Engaging Conversations

[00:24:27] Networking vs. Purposeful Game Play

[00:25:20] Audience Participation in Game Design

[00:26:06] Game Design for Process Thinking

[00:27:09] Gamifying Cultural Awareness Training

[00:28:32] Game Design for Consultant Collaboration

[00:30:32] Networking Through Game Mechanics

[00:31:56] Purpose-Driven Game Experiences

[00:33:09] Audience Questions on Game Application

[00:35:15] Game Design for Specific Organizational Needs

[00:36:07] Event Planning with Gamified Professional Development

[00:37:50] Conclusion and Podcast Credits