About VGTVG

The Meaningful Digital Experiences Research Lab (MDXR LAB) at Monmouth University proudly presents Valid Gains Through Video Games (VGTVG). Since 2023, this unique annual conference, founded by Erik X. Raj and hosted at Monmouth University, aims to combine the exciting and important worlds of education and video games. With an emphasis on growing speech, language, and communication abilities, we believe that video games are a powerful medium that naturally engages players through storytelling, problem-solving, social interaction, and so much more. Therefore, our mission is to start, support, and celebrate meaningful conversations about this belief through this conference. By bringing together forward-thinking individuals from various roles in schools, healthcare, private practice, and video game design/development, we aim to generate ideas that help everyone see how video game experiences can be thoughtfully infused into learning and therapeutic goals. We believe that from this 21st-century approach, today’s students, clients, and patients can better succeed in the “game of life” and “level up” in education, therapy, and beyond.

Recapping VGTVG 2024

Thank you to the nearly 100 attendees who joined us for last year’s VGTVG. Your presence and participation were instrumental in making the event a resounding success. We were thrilled to welcome speakers and attendees from nearby states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York, as well as from more distant locations, including Texas, California, and Washington. It was wonderful to have so many representatives from different parts of the country, which enriched our discussions and fostered a collaborative learning environment. Such diversity in perspectives and experiences helps us all to grow and learn together. Please watch the following recap video to get a feel for how fun and impactful VGTVG 2024 was.

When, Where, and How Much?

Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM

Monmouth University Graduate Center,
185 State Highway 36, West Long Branch, NJ 07764 (Building C)

Registration is free for
VGTVG 2025

More about VGTVG 2025

Get ready for a face-to-face, full-day conference featuring invited presentations by Lindsay Cesari (Upstate New York junior high school librarian and esports coach) and Zachary Hartzman (New York City high school social studies teacher and author of the Teaching with Video Games book series). Additionally, the day will showcase two separate interactive and playful panel discussions led by Erik X. Raj (Monmouth University Department of Speech-Language Pathology associate professor and director of the MDXR LAB). Be sure to check out the Schedule that highlights all the specifics connected to VGTVG 2025.

Lastly, several accepted poster presentations will be on display at the conference. Poster presenters—including public and private K-12 educators, healthcare providers, video game designers/developers, industry and academic researchers, and undergraduate and graduate students—will be available to discuss their work and engage in conversations with attendees. If you’re interested in submitting a peer-reviewed poster presentation for consideration for VGTVG 2025,, visit the Submissions page.

Presenters

Lindsay Cesari

Upstate New York junior high school librarian and esports coach

Zachary Hartzman

New York City high school social studies teacher and author of the Teaching with Video Games book series

Erik X. Raj

Monmouth University Department of Speech-Language Pathology associate professor and director of the MDXR LAB

Panelists

Lindsay Rossillo

New Jersey speech-language pathologist at Speech Warrior Speech Therapy

Larissa De Araujo Fortunato

New Jersey speech-language pathologist at Wanaque Elementary School

Paula Thomson Schiappa

New Jersey speech-language pathologist at TheraFit Rehab

Sponsors

We are actively seeking sponsors to help support VGTVG 2025. If you or your company is interested in partnering with us, reach out for more details on sponsorship opportunities over at our Contact page.

Join Us

This conference is designed to be inclusive, fostering an environment where every participant feels welcomed, respected, and valued. We firmly believe that diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich the event and contribute to significant discussions and collaborations. Regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic, all are encouraged to participate actively, share their unique insights, and engage in constructive dialogue.

  • Information shared at VGTVG will benefit various professions and communities including:

    • K-12 teachers, child study team members, related service providers, paraprofessionals, and administrators.

    • Healthcare providers such as patient technologists and technicians, therapists and rehabilitation specialists, and social and emotional support team members.

    • Private practice-based educators, therapists, and specialists.

    • Video game designers, developers, and enthusiasts.

    • Industry and academic researchers.

    • Undergraduate and graduate students.

  • Visit our Schedule page to learn more about what the day of the conference will look like.

  • Visit our Registration page to register for this conference.

PAST CONFERENCES

Visit our Past Conferences page to learn more about the previous VGTVG installments that have taken place.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS

Visit our Contact page to connect directly with the people behind this conference.