Stuff that Matters, Ep. 45 - Michael Prelaske, Digital Game Based Learning, Teaching, Education, Engagement

Michael Prelaske is a high school social studies teacher in Wake County, NC, a Graduate Research Assistant at NC State, and founder of 1347 Games, where he designs immersive, multiplayer simulations for classroom learning. His work challenges the traditional model of passive instruction by exploring how digital game-based learning can improve engagement, deepen understanding, and increase long-term retention.Michael’s research focuses on the efficacy of game-based instruction, particularly how well knowledge transfers beyond the game environment and sticks with students over time. He is especially interested in how interactive systems can make abstract or complex content—like global trade, historical decision-making, and social systems—more tangible and meaningful for adolescents.Before entering the classroom, Michael served as a Community Youth Development Officer in Mongolia with the Peace Corps, an experience that continues to shape his perspective on education, culture, and access. He has since earned multiple Teacher of the Year recognitions in North Carolina and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Teacher Education and Learning Sciences at North Carolina State University.Through both his research and his company, Michael is working to redefine what rigorous, engaging learning can look like in modern classrooms—moving beyond memorization toward experiences that students can think with.Digital Gaming Based Learning (DGBL) technology as a whole – what is, when did it start to take shape and be recognized as a tool for students - has the potential to revolutionize how students learn by making education more interactive, immersive, and relevant to their lives. (00:01:31-00:20:37) - His background – when did he start to take an interest in this type of learning, Digital Gaming Based Learning (DGBL) as a whole. A little more about Thirteen Forty-Seven Games - which is the only game design firm specializing in standards-based multiplayer simulations for the secondary social studies classroom(00:20:38-00:33:20) – How the work that’s being done at Thirteen Forty-Seven is transforming modern education and how students have responded to this type of learning.(00:35:07-00:47:53) - The distinction between DGBL and typical video games on an XBOX or PlayStation – what makes this form of gaming so much more beneficial. The level of engagement amongst students who are participating in DGBL classes.(00:47:54-00:52:49) - Five-year outlook or maybe sooner - do you see this type of learning being utilized in other subjects – making math or algebra more immersive, and maybe even branching into the corporate world, during an orientation period for new hires at a company – what other possibilities are out there?(00:52:51) – The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  to learn more about New Hope on our WEBSITE.