The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Pathways to the Digital Decade by Alan Resnick.

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the New England Institute of Technology (New England Tech) has positioned itself at the forefront of a transformative movement aimed at establishing Rhode Island as the digital nexus of the Northeast. The institute’s latest endeavor, encapsulated in the academic paper titled “Advancing Digital Literacy through Game Design,” marks a significant milestone in this journey. This groundbreaking work is slated for presentation at the prestigious SAM International Business Conference, an event that gathers luminaries and thought leaders from across the globe to explore the cutting-edge intersections of technology, education, and business.

At the heart of this initiative is the Rhode Island Digital Games Institute (RIDigi), a visionary project launched by New England Tech to serve as a beacon of innovation and leadership in the digital realm. RIDigi embodies a collaborative ecosystem, uniting creative digital strategists, game developers, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals with a shared commitment to harnessing the power of gamification to drive digital literacy, job creation, and life quality improvements across Rhode Island. This initiative not only showcases the potential of digital games in educational and professional contexts but also underscores the role of universities in leading societal change.

The paper delves into the strategic underpinnings of RIDigi, highlighting its comprehensive approach to fostering a digitally literate society. Through a series of meticulously designed programs and partnerships, RIDigi aims to elevate the state’s profile as a hub for digital innovation. The institute’s efforts encompass a wide array of activities, from engaging high school and university students in enriching digital literacy programs to fostering collaborations with industry leaders and local organizations to propel the digital economy forward.

By framing game design and development as a conduit for educational and career advancement, RIDigi is charting a novel path toward a future where digital fluency is not just valued but essential. The institute’s work serves as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration between academic institutions, industry, and community stakeholders in crafting solutions that address the multifaceted challenges of our time.

The presentation at the SAM International Business Conference promises to be an interactive exploration of these themes, offering participants the opportunity to share insights and stories from their experiences at the intersection of digital technology and education. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how visioning for the digital industry, coupled with strategic engagement and innovation, can lead to substantial societal benefits ranging from enhanced healthcare outcomes to workforce training and entertainment.

As New England Tech prepares to showcase its pioneering work on the international stage, the academic community and industry leaders alike are poised to witness the unveiling of a blueprint for the future of digital literacy and innovation. The presentation not only signifies a significant achievement for the institute but also serves as a call to action for stakeholders across sectors to join in the movement towards a digitally empowered society.

Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.