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