Ready, Set, Respond: How Playing an Outbreak Simulation Game Helps Scientists Prepare for the Next Pandemic
Ready, Set, Respond: How Playing an Outbreak Simulation Game Helps Scientists Prepare for the Next Pandemic
Ready, Set, Respond: How Playing an Outbreak Simulation Game Helps Scientists Prepare for the Next Pandemic
Mila Rosenthal
October, 3, 2024
Summary
Since COVID-19, there has been a push to better prepare for future pandemics. Bill Gates emphasized the need for proactive planning, comparing it to firefighting drills. In response, the International Science Reserve (ISR) has built a global network of over 11,000 scientists across 100 countries to prepare for future crises. To enhance preparedness, the ISR launched a digital game, the Pathogen Outbreak Game, where players act as public health directors during a simulated outbreak. The game helps develop crisis management skills, encourages collaboration, and promotes a “culture of readiness” through engaging, gamified learning and real-world scenario practice.
Reference
Rosenthal, M. (2024, October 3). Ready, set, respond: How playing an outbreak simulation game helps scientists prepare for the next pandemic. The New York Academy of Sciences. https://www.nyas.org/ideas-insights/blog/ready-set-respond-how-playing-an-outbreak-simulation-game-helps-scientists-prepare-for-the-next-pandemic/