Group member:

1. Lê Thị Yến Nhi

2. Nguyễn Khánh Nhi

3. Ngô Huỳnh Yến Nhi

4. Nguyễn Xuân Nhi

5. Trần Lý Gia Bảo

ESPORTS TO CHILDREN’S IDENTITIES

I. Introduction

Good morning everyone! Today, I'd like to talk about a phenomenon that's rapidly
growing in popularity: esports. But before we dive in, have you ever wondered what it
would be like to turn your gaming skills into a competitive career? Esports, or electronic
sports, is exactly that. It's organized video game competition, played at a professional
level. Just like traditional sports, esports has teams, leagues, tournaments, and even
massive viewership.

Esports is not just about playing video games for fun; it has evolved into a competitive
platform that requires skill, strategy, and dedication, similar to traditional sports. As the
industry continues to expand, it presents new avenues for children to develop their
identities and pursue careers in a rapidly growing field

In fact, esports has exploded in popularity in recent years, with millions of viewers tuning
in to watch top gamers compete for glory and prize money. This rapid growth speaks
volumes about the potential of esports, not just as entertainment, but also as a positive
influence on young people's development.

Today, I'm here to persuade you that esports can actually benefit children's identities in a
number of ways. So, buckle up, and get ready to see esports in a whole new light!
II. The Benefits of Esports

Esports, competitive video gaming, provides more benefits than just entertainment.
They can provide a training ground for valuable skills applicable to many aspects of life.
Some major advantages of it include:

Cognitive Development:
- Critical thinking: Esports often require split-second decisions based on rapidly
changing situations. Players must analyze complex scenarios, consider multiple options,
and choose the most effective course of action – all under pressure. This constant
problem-solving hones their critical thinking skills.
- Strategic Thinking: Many esports are strategy-based, demanding long-term
planning alongside immediate reactions. Players devise winning strategies, adapt them to
the opponent's moves, and anticipate future developments. This can help strengthen their
ability to think strategically and plan ahead.
- Multitasking: Esports heavily rely on precise hand movements and quick
reflexes. Gamers hone their visual acuity, improve reaction times, and develop
exceptional hand-eye coordination through the constant need for precise control.

Social Skills:
- Teamwork: Most popular esports are team games. Success hinges on effective
communication, collaboration, and trusting teammates to fulfill their roles. Players learn
to coordinate actions, rely on each other, and celebrate victories (or learn from defeats) as
a unit.
- Communication: Clear and concise communication is crucial in esports. Players
need to convey information quickly and efficiently, strategize verbally, and provide
constructive criticism to one another. This fosters strong communication skills, both
verbal and nonverbal.
Global Connections: Esports transcend geographical boundaries. Online competitions
connect players from across the globe, fostering friendships and cultural understanding.
They learn to collaborate and compete with people from diverse backgrounds.

Patience and strong-minded:

- Handling Loss and Failure: Esports are inherently competitive, and not every
match will be a win. Players experience losses and setbacks. Learning to cope with
disappointment, analyze mistakes, and come back stronger builds resilience, a crucial life
skill.
- Strive for Improvement: The best esports athletes are constantly striving to
improve. They analyze their gameplay, identify weaknesses, and practice relentlessly to
reach their full potential. This dedication to self-improvement translates well into any
field.
In conclusion, Esports can offer both mental and social challenges. Thus, making them a
valuable training ground for a range of skills that benefit people (and adults!) both inside
and outside the gaming world.

III. Esports and Identity

Esport and Identity:

- As you may know, taking part in esports competitions somehow strongly boosts
the confidence and personal skills of school children, I will show you a more persuasive
illustration according to the studies called the Digital Schoolhouse. It was sponsored by a
giant of the gaming industry, Nintendo, and used competitive gaming – better known as
esports – as part of its teaching approach to the computing curriculum. A study showed
pupils who took part in the program felt their communication skills had improved as a
result, as had their self-confidence and willingness to study computing further. And here
is the statistics of this study:
 - 74% of pupils asked said they felt the gaming had helped with their
communication skills

- 80% of those said they were now more likely to participate in other team sports

- 98% said they were more confident about computing as a subject after being
involved in a Digital Schoolhouse workshop,

- Notably, female participation in the subject increased by 46% after taking part in
esports aspects of the program. So what can we come up with after learning this study?
Well, esports and gaming have historically conjured negative stereotypes amongst
parents or those distant from them. However, it is unfair to overlook and ignore the true
benefits that esports and competitive gaming offer students. It has to be the true reason
why Esports has grown rapidly as an industry in recent years and is estimated to generate
more than a billion dollars annually, with reports estimating more than 450 million
people watch esports competitions.
Cre: 18000 spectators lively watched the final LOL WC 2023

- Strategic Thinking: Esports require players to make quick decisions and strategize
in real-time, which can enhance a child's problem-solving skills and strategic thinking
abilities.

- Teamwork and Communication: Many esports are team-based, requiring players

to communicate effectively and work together to succeed, thereby boosting
communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others.

- Goal Setting: Esports involves setting and achieving goals, which can help
children learn the value of hard work and persistence, leading to increased self-esteem
when they reach their objectives.

- Handling Pressure: Competing in esports can teach children how to cope with
pressure and manage stress, contributing to their emotional resilience.
 - Hand-eye Coordination: Fast-paced games improve hand-eye coordination, a skill
that can boost a child's confidence in their physical abilities.

- Spatial Awareness: Games that require navigation and tracking of multiple objects
can improve spatial awareness, which is beneficial not only in gaming but also in real-life
situations.

- Recognition and Rewards: Success in esports can come with recognition from
peers and the community, which can be a significant confidence booster for children.

- Scholarship Opportunities: Some institutions offer scholarships for esports, which

can provide a sense of achievement and a clear pathway to higher education.

Community and Belonging:

- In the electrifying world of esports, where the clatter of keyboards and the click of
mice resonate like a symphony, there lies a deeper connection that transcends the virtual
battles waged on screen. It's the profound sense of belonging that envelops you as you
dive into this digital domain—a feeling akin to finding your tribe.

- Esports, a spectacle of skill and strategy, has burgeoned into a global

phenomenon, captivating millions with its high-octane tournaments and charismatic
personalities. But beyond the glitz of the grand stages and the thrill of competition,
esports weaves a tapestry of community that offers a sanctuary for many.

- Belonging in the esports community is not just about being a spectator or a

competitor; it's about being part of a collective that shares your passion, understands your
jargon, and celebrates your victories, no matter how small. It's a place where diversity
thrives—regardless of race, age, gender, or physical prowess, everyone is welcome in the
esports fold.

- Schools and institutions have recognized the power of esports to foster inclusivity
and have integrated programs that amplify students' sense of belonging. These initiatives
are not limited to forming competitive teams; they extend to clubs, intramurals, and
courses that open doors for all to participate. By doing so, they create a nurturing
environment where students can connect, collaborate, and grow together.

- The impact of esports communities is palpable. They serve as a lifeline, a support

system that has helped individuals through tough times, such as the isolation experienced
during the COVID-19 lockdowns. For some, these communities have been a beacon of
hope, a place where they found the strength to overcome personal adversities.

- Online platforms like Discord and Reddit have become the virtual town squares
for esports enthusiasts, where friendships are forged, and experiences are shared. These
spaces are more than just forums; they are the digital campfires around which stories are
told and bonds are formed.

- The beauty of the esports community lies in its ability to teach life lessons—
patience, passion, and support. It's a microcosm where prosocial behaviors are nurtured,
and digital citizenship is championed. The community stands as a testament to the fact
that when people come together around a shared love, extraordinary things happen.

- As esports continues to soar in popularity, it's essential to recognize that at its

heart, it's not just about the games. It's about the people, the connections, and the sense of
belonging that blooms within this vibrant community. So, whether you're a seasoned
gamer or new to the scene, know that there's a place for you in the esports universe—a
place where you can truly be yourself and be embraced for it.

Career Paths in Esports

You might be wondering, what career opportunities does esports offer? The answer is –
plenty! Esports is not just about the players; it’s a vast ecosystem that requires a diverse
range of talents and skills.

1. Professional Player: This is perhaps the most well-known career path in esports.
Just like traditional sports, there are professional esports athletes who compete at
the highest levels in games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike.
 These players are the stars of the show, earning substantial salaries, sponsorships,
and prize money.

2. Coach/Analyst: Behind every successful esports team is a dedicated coaching

staff. Coaches and analysts play a crucial role in strategizing, analyzing gameplay,
and training players to perform at their best. If you have a deep understanding of
the game mechanics and a knack for strategy, this could be the perfect career path
for you.

3. Caster/Commentator: Do you have a passion for storytelling and a gift for gab?
If so, a career as an esports caster or commentator might be right up your alley.
Casters are the voice of the game, providing live commentary during matches and
helping to engage and entertain the audience.

4. Content Creator/Streamer: With the rise of platforms like Twitch and YouTube,
content creation has become a lucrative career path in esports. Content creators
and streamers produce engaging and entertaining content, ranging from gameplay
videos and tutorials to vlogs and live streams. If you have a charismatic
personality and a knack for entertaining, you could build a successful career as a
content creator in esports.

5. Event Organizer/Producer: Esports events, whether they are small local

tournaments or massive international competitions, require meticulous planning
and organization. Event organizers and producers play a vital role in coordinating
these events, ensuring everything runs smoothly and the audience has an
unforgettable experience.

6. Marketing/Sales Professional: Like any other industry, esports relies heavily on

marketing and sales to generate revenue and grow its audience. Marketing and
sales professionals play a crucial role in promoting esports events, securing
sponsorships, and engaging fans through various channels.

Shaping a Child’s Future Identity

Now, you might be wondering, how can a career in esports shape a child’s future
identity? The answer lies in the unique blend of skills and experiences that esports offers.

1. Teamwork and Collaboration: Esports is a team-based activity that requires

players to work together, communicate effectively, and collaborate to achieve a
common goal. These teamwork skills are not only essential in esports but also
transferable to other areas of life, such as school, work, and personal relationships.

2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Esports games are complex and require
players to think quickly, adapt to changing situations, and come up with creative
solutions to overcome challenges. These critical thinking and problem-solving
skills are invaluable in today’s fast-paced world and can help children excel
academically and professionally.

3. Communication and Public Speaking: Whether it’s communicating with

teammates during a game or engaging with fans on social media, effective
communication is key in esports. By participating in esports, children can develop
their communication skills and gain confidence in public speaking, which can
benefit them in various aspects of their lives.

4. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Esports offers numerous opportunities for

entrepreneurship, from starting a gaming team or organizing local tournaments to
launching a successful YouTube channel or streaming career. By exploring these
opportunities, children can develop an entrepreneurial mindset and learn valuable
business skills that can help them succeed in any industry.

IV. Addressing Concerns

1. The Dangers of Too Much Screen Time

- Eye strain.
- Headache.
 - Sleep Disturbances
2. Physical health
- Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: leak of activity leads to obesity, heart issues, muscle
and bone disorders.
3. How can esport gamers manage these concerns?
- Take breaks. Every 20-30 minutes, look away from the screen for a few minutes,
do some eye exercises, give their eyes a break and get their body moving.
- Mind their sleep schedule. Power down electronics at least an hour before bed and
create a relaxing bedtime routine. a tired player often makes more mistakes. So,
getting enough good quality sleep is essential for peak performance.
- Get active. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the
week.
- Pay attention to the posture. Sit up straight, with their feet flat on the floor and
their elbows at a 90-degree angle. Poor posture can lead to aches and pains,
which can really disrupt in training and competition. Making sure the chair and
desk are set up properly can help prevent these issues.

V. Conclusion

In conclusion, we have explored the numerous benefits that esports can bring to children's
identities. From fostering teamwork and communication skills to promoting critical
thinking and problem-solving abilities, esports has proven to be a valuable activity for
children's personal growth and development.

Throughout this speech, our aim has been to shed light on the positive impact that esports
can have on children's lives. We have shown how Esports can help them hone their
critical thinking, strategic thinking, multitasking, teamwork, communication, problem-
solving skills, patience and strong-minded. By engaging in esports, children have the
opportunity to discover and nurture their talents, build confidence, and develop a strong
sense of identity.
It is important that we recognize and accept esports as a beneficial activity for children.
Rather than dismissing it as a mere hobby or pastime, we should embrace its potential to
shape and enhance children's lives. By encouraging their participation in esports, we are
not only supporting their personal growth but also helping them acquire skills that are
essential in the digital age.

Let us move forward with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the positive aspects
of esports. By doing so, we can create an environment where children can thrive and
excel, both in the virtual world and in their everyday lives. Let us celebrate and
encourage the pursuit of esports as a valuable and beneficial activity for our children's
identities. With responsible participation, esports can be a fun and enriching activity that
shapes them into well-rounded individuals.