Esports In Higher Education: Investigating Faculty And Students’ Preferences Towards Career-Oriented Collegiate Esports (A Case Of Universities In Pakistan)

Abstract

Esports has grown dramatically in popularity over the last three decades. Esports industry has benefited from the post-COVID-19 turmoil, and youngsters desire to work there. Consequently, numerous universities across the US have begun to offer undergraduate esports programs. However, due to a lack of awareness and interest from regulators, particularly in developing nations (i.e., Pakistan) educational sectors are hesitant to incorporate esports into academics. In contrast, university students are struggling financially due to rising inflation and thus higher tuition fees. The goal of this study is to establish e-gaming as a viable and healthy career option in Pakistani institutions. This aims to examine university-based students' and teachers' perspectives regarding esports integration into courses. Statistical tests (ANOVA) revealed substantial differences in responses from a survey of 370 university students and 76 university teachers. A positive change in perception toward esports inclusion in curricula will help students to bridge the gap between their emerging interests and the esports industry.