Innovate at Iowa State

Innovation Fellows in Training (I-FiT)

      Design Play: Gamifying Everyday Life

    June 28–29, 2025 | USA Pavilion, EXPO 2025 Osaka
    Free for high school students | Only 75 spots available
    Registration closes: June 13, 2025

    Presented by Iowa State University's Innovation Fellows in Training: International Series 2025

    Get hands-on with innovation through this international workshop series. As a participant, you’ll collaborate with Iowa State faculty and students, earn an innovation certificate, and take home a limited-edition t-shirt.

    Reserve your spot

    Fill out a short form to reserve your spot.

    What if brushing your teeth felt like beating a level?

    In this 2-day workshop, you'll explore how game design can transform everyday routines into playful, problem-solving adventures. From reimagining school hallways to adding rewards to lunchboxes, you'll design and test creative ideas that make life more fun.

    What you'll do

    • Learn how design thinking and UX design shape everyday experiences
    • Map out user journeys and spot opportunities for improvement
    • Use game mechanics like points, levels, and challenges to drive ideas
    • Build and test prototypes using real-world feedback
    • Work with other creative students and expert mentors

    Who can attend?

    Senior high school students in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade with interests in:

    • Game design
    • Graphic design
    • Industrial or interior design
    • Architecture
    • Art and creative problem solving
    • Other areas in design

    *Priority will be given to 2nd and 3rd grade students. 1st year students are welcome to apply. 

    Workshop details

    June 28 & 29, 2025
    10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. both days
    USA Pavilion, EXPO 2025 Osaka
    Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay
    Direct access from Yumeshima Station (East Gate) via Osaka Metro Chuo Line

    Attendance both days is required

    Cost

    • Completely free for students
    • Includes EXPO 2025 admission, an innovation certificate, and a limited-edition t-shirt
    Expo logos

    Questions?

    We’ve got answers. Email Judi or Jorge with your questions.

    See innovation in action