Antwerp, Belgium – Students and faculty at Thomas More university in Belgium recently participated in a 24-hour LAN party, an event organizers say aimed to foster connection and community through a shared love of gaming. The event, held on the university’s campus, brought together over 70 participants, ranging from first-year students to professors, for a weekend of competitive and collaborative gaming. The initiative highlights a growing recognition of the social benefits of gaming, moving beyond stereotypes of isolation to embrace its potential as a bonding experience.
The idea for the LAN party originated with the university’s student association and quickly gained support from faculty members. “We wanted to create an environment where students and teachers could interact outside of the traditional classroom setting,” explained one of the event organizers, according to reporting from Nieuwsblad. “Gaming provides a common ground, a shared activity that can break down barriers and build relationships.” The event wasn’t just about high scores and quick reflexes; it was about creating a space for informal interaction and strengthening the university community.
Building Bridges Through Digital Play
LAN parties, short for Local Area Network parties, involve connecting multiple computers together to form a network, allowing participants to play multiplayer games together. Even as once a staple of gaming culture in the 1990s and early 2000s, they have become less common with the rise of online gaming. Though, the Thomas More event demonstrates a resurgence of interest in the physical, social aspect of LAN parties. The university provided the network infrastructure, while participants brought their own computers, peripherals, and, of course, their favorite games.
The selection of games was diverse, ranging from popular esports titles like Counter-Strike and League of Legends to cooperative games that encouraged teamwork, and communication. Organizers intentionally included a mix of genres to appeal to a wide range of gaming preferences. Beyond the scheduled tournaments, there was ample time for free play and casual interaction. The event also featured a dedicated space for board games and other non-digital activities, acknowledging that not everyone is a dedicated gamer.
A Shift in Perspective on Gaming
The Thomas More LAN party reflects a broader shift in societal perceptions of gaming. For years, gaming has often been associated with negative stereotypes – addiction, violence, and social isolation. However, research increasingly suggests that gaming can offer a range of benefits, including improved cognitive skills, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and increased social connection. A report from the American Psychological Association highlights the potential for video games to promote learning, social interaction, and emotional well-being.
“It’s important to recognize that gaming is not a monolithic activity,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a researcher at the University of California, Irvine, who studies the social impact of video games. “Different games offer different experiences, and for many people, gaming is a deeply social and engaging hobby.” The Thomas More event embodies this perspective, showcasing gaming as a positive force for community building.
Faculty Participation: Leading by Example
Perhaps one of the most notable aspects of the Thomas More LAN party was the active participation of faculty members. Several professors joined students in gaming, demonstrating a willingness to engage with students on their level and share in their interests. This participation helped to break down traditional hierarchies and foster a more relaxed and informal atmosphere.
“As a professor, it’s easy to get caught up in research and teaching,” said one participating professor, whose name was not released by Nieuwsblad. “This event was a great reminder that students are people with lives and interests outside of the classroom. It was a fun way to connect with them and learn more about their world.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Initiative
Following the success of the inaugural event, organizers at Thomas More are already planning future LAN parties and other gaming-related activities. They hope to expand the initiative to include more students and faculty, as well as to explore new ways to leverage gaming for educational purposes. The university is also considering creating a dedicated gaming space on campus, providing a permanent hub for students to connect and play.
The event serves as a model for other universities and educational institutions looking to foster a stronger sense of community and engage with students in innovative ways. By embracing gaming as a positive social activity, Thomas More is demonstrating the potential for digital play to bridge divides and build connections. The university plans to publish a post-event report detailing participation numbers and feedback from attendees, which will be available on their website in the coming weeks.
The next step for the Thomas More student association is a feedback session scheduled for June 10th, where participants will discuss improvements for future events. Those interested in learning more about the university’s initiatives can visit their official website at www.thomasmore.be. We encourage readers to share their own experiences with gaming and community building in the comments below.
