WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY

Assumption University's Graduate School of Human Sciences (GSHS) is leading the way in reimagining education through experiential learning. In a recent initiative, Dr. Timothy Scott, a forward-thinking instructor with the GSHS, introduced student’s working on their M.Ed. EAL (Educational Administration and Leadership) degree, to The 2030 SDG’s Game—an innovative experience designed to foster understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Innovative Teaching Approach by Dr. Timothy Scott
Forward-thinking instructor introduces SDGs through experiential learning to inspire future educational leaders.

Dr. Scott’s commitment to hands-on, transformative learning opportunities led him to organize the game as part of his master’s level course on Educational Leadership. The SDG Game, facilitated by Dr. Scott Smith, AU’s only certified facilitator of this unique experience, took participants on a journey into the future, simulating real-world scenarios to explore sustainability challenges.

The 2030 SDG Game is a multiplayer card-based simulation, originally developed in Japan in 2016, which has since made its mark in corporate, educational, and community settings globally. The game encourages participants to take action to create a sustainable society by 2030, striking a balance between the three pillars of People, Planet, and Profit. It not only provides an accessible introduction to the 17 SDGs but also inspires participants to imagine the world they want to create and consider the steps necessary to make that vision a reality.


 

 

 

 

Engaging the Next Generation of Change-Makers
The 2030 SDG Game provides a powerful simulation for students to explore real-world sustainability challenges.

Dr. Timothy Scott spoke of the game’s impact on his students: “The potential of this game for university teachers and administrators is tremendous. It’s not just a tool for learning about the SDGs in an easy, digestible way; it encourages us to imagine the world we want to create and begin taking steps towards that vision. The parallels between what happened in the game and what happens in real life were eye-opening.”

Joining the session was pioneering educator Mr. James Edward Ford, Head of School for Roong Aroon International School (RAIS), who found the experience especially valuable for future implementation. “Introducing the SDGs through a game is a fantastic way to make these global challenges relatable to students. It’s an activity we can refer to throughout the semester, reinforcing concepts in a meaningful way,” he noted.

Also participating was the magnanimous Sr. Anna Ngo Thi Dung, from the Dominican Sisters of St. Catharine of Siena in Vietnam, highlighted the game’s versatility: “This activity could be an engaging way to introduce SDGs to students of all ages. It’s not only about gaining knowledge but also about inspiring participants to see their role in creating change,” she shared.


Collaboration Across the AU Community
Insights from school leaders and students reveal the game’s potential to transform classrooms and inspire action.

Adding valuable support to the facilitation was Mr. Kaung Myat Aung known to friends’ as 'River', a first-year student from the Theophane Venard School of Biotechnology. Known for his passion for sustainable development, River played a significant role in assisting with the game. Reflecting on his experience, he shared: “Facilitating the SDG Game has been an incredible experience. It’s inspiring to see how people from all walks of life come together to learn, collaborate, and create sustainable solutions. I believe that understanding the SDGs is a first step towards building a better, more equitable future for everyone.”

Dr. Scott Smith, the certified facilitator of the session, emphasized the importance of bringing innovative and experiential tools into education: “The SDG Game isn't just a learning activity—it’s an experience that challenges participants to envision a better future. We need educational tools that not only inform but also motivate action, and this game does exactly that.”

As AU’s only certified facilitator of The 2030 SDG Game, Dr. Smith added, “I am very happy to run games for organizations, corporations, and especially for students. The game provides an opportunity to engage in critical thinking, foster teamwork, and, most importantly, imagine the kind of future we all want to build together.”

The 2030 SDG Game session was more than just an educational exercise—it was a transformative experience that empowered participants to see their potential as change-makers. With such initiatives, Assumption University continues to inspire students to embrace sustainable thinking and contribute positively to society, making the SDGs not just a theoretical concept, but an actionable mission.

Organizing the 2030 SDG Game aligns closely with several of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The game effectively educates participants, promotes sustainable urban and community planning, raises awareness of climate action, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration—all core aspects of AU’s Green Library campaign.

If you’re interested in bringing the 2030 SDG Game experience to your organization, school, or community group, Dr. Scott Smith is ready to help make sustainability education a reality.

For more information or to schedule a session, please reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Together, let's inspire the next generation of sustainable thinkers!

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