Why the Homeland Security Workforce Must Learn to “Play Games” to Prepare for 21st-Century Threats
Why the Homeland Security Workforce Must Learn to “Play Games” to Prepare for 21st-Century Threats
Why the Homeland Security Workforce Must Learn to “Play Games” to Prepare for 21st-Century Threats
Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, David H. Schanzer
December, 30, 2025
Summary
A cascading crisis—wildfire, blackouts, disinformation, and cyberattacks—illustrates today’s complex security threats and the need for better training. A two-year Duke University study found immersive simulations outperform traditional methods like webinars and tests. In a national security course using the Acceleration game, students and professionals navigated evolving geopolitical scenarios, making strategic decisions and adapting to consequences. Objective assessments showed gains in critical thinking, perspective-taking, and causal reasoning, alongside improved teamwork and subject knowledge. Participants praised the hands-on experience over static training. With AI-driven platforms enabling scalable, affordable simulations, immersive gaming offers a powerful tool to prepare the next generation of homeland security leaders.
Reference
Gartenstein-Ross, D., & Schanzer, D. H. (2025, December 30). Why the homeland security workforce must learn to “play games” to prepare for 21st-century threats. Homeland Security Today. https://www.hstoday.us/featured/why-the-homeland-security-workforce-must-learn-to-play-games-to-prepare-for-21st-century-threats/