David I. Schwartz

I've been studying how the convergence of games and media-centric computing, GIS, and disaster planning can save the world.

1. How Do You Teach Applied Critical Thinking in the Context of Disaster?

Using games as a way to think about how systems of people (in a variety of roles: citizens, planners, responders, ...) can design, implement, practice, and reflect upon critical scenarios.

2. Why Do You Think Applied Critical Thinking is Important in Your Domain?

At their core, games are systems of rules in which people engage to try out and experience new ideas within that system. Games are especially good at distilling complex systems into manageable--and engaging--"chunks" to capture attention and experiment.

3. Can You Share a Story Where Quality Applied Critical Thinking Was Key to Your Success?

"Disaster planning" as a unit head in IGM. The key concepts of my research came into play immediately when I realized I needed to direct, plan, and respond to the recent events and the complexity of running a rather massive unit.

4. How Do I Use Critical Thinking in Other Areas of Your Life Outside of RIT?

I think about the choices I make as they have impact on my life: what do I eat, how do I use my time, the people in my life ... I try to be present.

5. Any Last Critical Thoughts You Wish to Share About What We Are Experiencing Now or What You Have Learned in Past Work?

I realize it's dramatic to say, "the world as we know it has changed." But it has. Disaster research shows that people need to address living in what's called a "new normal' and to think about the opportunities it presents. I see RIT as having the potential to address and advance the coming collaborations across institutions to address ways we can bring our academic programs to the world. And the kind of research we're doing at the convergence I highlight can advance how we learn to thrive in this new normal.