Crash Course- 2025 Project
The Project
Degree completion is a key challenge facing colleges and universities. First generation, rural, and low-income students often lack access to the support systems needed for college success, leading these students to drop-out at greater rates than their peers.
Attempting to address some of these factors that contribute to student attrition, Dr. Siefert has developed Crash Course. This video game aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful college experiences.
The Impact
This team has successfully translated their work into society! A fully developed virtual college simulator has been deployed to increase the rates of college attendance, retention and graduation and a partnership with GearUp Montana has led to Crash Course being implemented in schools across Montana!
Meet the Team
Tricia Seifert
Project Lead, ART Ambassador & Dean of the College of Education, Health & Human Development
Tasha Striker
As a graduate student at Montana State University, Tasha represents the real experiences of college students, faculty, and staff as she crafts the story that engages game players.
Eli Watts
Eli Watts writes the Unity code for the digital game. He shares, "Pokémon Gold Version helped me learn how to read as a kid and I have been playing video games ever since. Getting the chance to help create worlds for others to explore is truly a dream come true." Eli started on the project as a student.
Taylor Miller
The complete utility team member, Taylor assists with writing code, creating assets, game testing and bug troubleshooting.
Michael Cassens
Michael is an Associate Professor in the School of Media Arts at the University of Montana where he teaches courses on game design and interactive media. Michael provides technical assistance on the project.
Solomon Albertson Gore (not pictured)
A graduate of the game design and interactive media curriculum at the University of Montana, Solomon has created the engaging user interface through a dedicated focus on the target audience's user experience.
Jensen Hammack (not pictured)
A former Montana State University student in the College of Art and Architecture, Jenson has brought the campus of Stratus University to life through colorful buildings and inviting characters!
"High school students worry about the cost of college and have some fear that they will not know how to succeed once they are on campus. As a result of NSF funding, they now have an engaging way to experience college life before the consequences are real."
-Dr. Tricia Seifert
