Grades:
6-12
8
Hours

AI in Esports

Boost student understanding of artificial intelligence by connecting it to video games and esports.

Learning Objectives

  • Explore the evolution of AI in gaming, from simple NPCs in early arcade games to today’s advanced, lifelike characters, highlighting how technology has shaped game design over time.
  • Discuss AI's ethical challenges in gaming, such as cheating, data privacy, and bias - and consider the responsibility of developers to create fair and transparent AI systems.
  • Examine how machine learning enhances game design and esports by creating smarter AI, improving gameplay analysis, and boosting training tools for competitive players.
  • Learn how AI is used to create dynamic gameplay and intelligent NPCs, focusing on techniques like pathfinding and procedural generation that make games more interactive and responsive.

Course Outline

The History of AI in Gaming

AI in Esports Competition

AI in Non-Player Characters (NPCs)

NPCs by Genre

AI and Game Development

Procedural Generation in Gaming

The Challenges of AI

AI Ethics in Gaming

Requirements

  • Laptop or desktop running Windows or macOS
  • Keyboard and mouse
  • Headphones

* Additional hardware and software requirements depending on selected video games

Description

AI in Esports introduces students to the role of artificial intelligence in gaming and competitive esports, from intelligent NPC behavior to advanced player analytics. Along the way, they’ll explore real-world applications, ethical challenges, and the evolving technologies that shape modern game design.

Grades:
6-12
8
Hours

Features

Video-based instruction

Portfolio-ready projects

Self-grading assessments

Includes capstone project

Career connections

Guided gameplay

USAEL at the HyperX Arena in Las Vegas

Bring Academic Esports to Your School

STEP 1

Schedule an Intro Call

We’ll find a time to sit down with your team, learn about your needs, and overview our services. Then, we’ll build a custom package that’s tailored to your vision of an esports program.

STEP 2

Customize Your Program

After you receive your custom package quote, we’ll be there to help you with questions and further customization needs. Then, we’ll send you an invoice that you can submit as a purchase order.

STEP 3

Get Started

Once your order is processed, you’ll receive a full onboarding and immediate access to the competition platform and your selected courses.

Get Started

Our K-12 Esports Programs in Action

See what our customers have to say about us.

“The biggest thing that I've learned through working with the students and going through the curriculum is building a team and working on communication skills. Those are skills that not only help them within the classroom but they can also take outside of school and into the real world.”

Steven Van Smaalen

Math Teacher, Santiago M.S.

“The kids are super excited esports. They love gaming together and esports has brought in this whole group of kids that don't normally get conne”cted in those extra activities, and so we've really tapped into a new group of kids.””

Susan Denton

Academic Improvement Specialist,
Standard School District

“It's not just kids playing video games, there's more to it. Don't be afraid to try something new. It can really give students who don't have a place to fit in an area where this is their forte. Something that will help them connect in the education process.”

Jim D'Agostino

Principal, Santiago M.S.