10 – 12 November 2026
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Dubai World Trade Centre Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 & 3
Ruth E Manlandro
Innovation and Technology Coach - GEMS International School Al Khail
Ruth is a multi-faceted instructional technologist that specializes in esports, game-based learning in the classroom, instructional technology and design. Ruth has experience teaching grades Pre-K through college (University) along with being a technology coordinator, technology support, and teacher training. Ruth is a Minecraft Global Ambassador, Microsoft Esports teacher and trainer, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert and Fellow. NASEF has named her an Esports fellow for the 2025-2026 year to enhance her knowledge of academic esports. Ruth is an Apple Educator, Adobe Creative Educator Level 1 and 2, Adobe Education Training Partner. Currently Ruth is an Innovation and Technology Coach at GEMS International School where she has started an Esports Team in PYP.
Ruth enjoys bringing new experiences to the classroom to enhance student learning and engagement using game-based learning. Technology and student learning with esports is one way that she incorporates 21st century learning skills in the classroom.
Speaker Sessions
Gaming@GESS
1986
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Grades & Games: Turning Assessment into Achievement Adventures
Session Summary:
Who says assessment has to feel like a final boss fight? This session explores how gamified tracking — like badges, progress bars, and unlockable challenges — transforms traditional evaluation into meaningful motivation. Learn how educators are designing systems that celebrate growth, not just grades. Whether you're building quests for mastery or avatars for effort, it’s time to assess learning with joy and creativity. Join this session to:
Identify gamified assessment techniques and its advantages over traditional formats
Explore strategies for designing achievement systems tied to learning goals
Learn how gamified feedback boosts self-efficacy and student agency
Speakers:
Ruth E Manlandro
|
Innovation and Technology Coach - GEMS International School Al Khail
Categories:
Gaming and Gamification in Education
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Building an Esports Program: Curriculum, Clubs & Careers
Session Summary:
Esports is more than just gameplay — it’s a gateway to 21st-century skills, career pathways, and student engagement. This session offers a practical roadmap for educators and administrators looking to build a sustainable esports program in their schools. From designing curriculum-aligned content to launching student-led clubs and exploring career connections in tech, media, and game development, learn how to turn passion into purpose. Whether you're starting from scratch or scaling up, this session equips you with the tools to make esports a meaningful part of your educational ecosystem. Join this session to:
Explore the key components of a successful school-based esports program, including curriculum, clubs, and career pathways
Identify strategies for aligning esports with academic standards and student interests
Learn how to build partnerships and infrastructure to support long-term program growth
Speakers:
Ruth E Manlandro
|
Innovation and Technology Coach - GEMS International School Al Khail
Categories:
Gaming and Gamification in Education
// GESS EDUCATION INSIGHTS
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