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HomeBlogEducationEventsLaunch PadPartnershipsStudentsWestern Sydney UniversityLearning through Gaming: Launch Pad’s AWS Tournament Boosts Student Learning 

Learning through Gaming: Launch Pad’s AWS Tournament Boosts Student Learning 

In an exciting collaboration, Launch Pad recently hosted a university-wide tournament in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). This event was not just a competition; it was a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering connections between students and industry. With the ever-growing demand for cloud computing skills, opportunities like this are essential for students aiming to enter the tech workforce. 

A Game-Changing Experience

The tournament showcased Amazon’s Cloud Quest, a 3D role-playing game designed to provide a fun and engaging way to develop practical AWS Cloud skills. A remarkable turnout of 70 enthusiastic students participated, many of whom had little to no prior experience with cloud technology. Despite this, they embraced the challenge and demonstrated impressive skills throughout the day.  

Learning Through Play

The top three students not only earned incredible merchandise packs but also secured a coveted visit to the AWS Headquarters in Sydney. This unique reward highlights the importance of real-world experiences in enhancing student learning and employability. 

Feedback from both students and industry professionals reinforced the value of this event. “It’s been a fantastic day; the students have learnt a great deal,” said Leon Anderson, Customer Success Manager at AWS. “They were hands-on, asking questions, and eager to grasp the technology.”  

Computer Science Student Angelina Juturu echoed this sentiment, sharing, “We learned everything in a gaming format, which was really entertaining. It was a great way to recap what I learned in my previous courses without the stress.” 

The immersive role-playing format not only made learning enjoyable but also allowed students to develop essential skills in a supportive environment. 

Industry Engagement: A Pathway to Employment

As Dr. Tomas Trescak, Associate Dean of Engagement at the School of CDMS, noted, “There’s only a limited amount of skills we can teach through coursework. Accepting industry challenges builds resilience and skills that students wouldn’t otherwise learn.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend among Western Sydney University students eager to gain real-world experience and improve their employability.

"It’s amazing to see how many students turn up for this challenge. Opportunities like this are crucial for students to engage in hands-on activities."

Towards the end of the tournament, students seized the opportunity to engage with the mentors from AWS. These interactions are vital for building professional networks and opening doors to internships and job opportunities.  

This collaboration aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal #4: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education while promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. By boosting cooperation with industry, we can drive innovation and prepare students to contribute to Australia’s status as a leading global economy. 

As we look forward to more initiatives like this, it’s clear that engaging with industry not only enhances students’ academic experiences but also prepares them for successful careers in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Keep a look out for future industry events powered by Launch Pad!