MIT Graduate Program in Comparative Media Studies

Studying Media and Making Media

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Fox Harrell on “Pong” and video games

Fox Harrell

Fox Harrell
Fox Harrell
Associate Professor of Digital Media Fox Harrell spoke recently with Action Speaks, whose podcasts celebrate great, America-changing anniversaries.

Last October 12, when Fox spoke with them, it happened to be the 39th anniversary of “Pong”…

Pong introduced America to video games and now there seems to be no turning back.

[…]
As more and more people around the world use video games to pass the time, to teach and learn and to create alternative realities, it is time for us to consider what its implications are and whether or not we are leading or being led–and to where.

Fox and two fellow panelists discussed the rise of video games and the need for a nuanced understanding of the impact of games, just as we’ve learned to apply to other media.
Action Speaks is broadcast on their presenting station WGBH in Boston and on over 250 other radio affiliates around the United States.

Action Speaks—October 12, 2011: 1972 – The Birth of Pong and Video Games

About Andrew Whitacre

Andrew directs the communications efforts for CMS/W and its research groups. A native of Washington, D.C., he holds a degree in communication from Wake Forest University, with a minor in humanities, as well as an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.

His work includes drawing up and executing strategic communications plans, with projects including website design, social media management and training, press outreach, product launches, fundraising campaign support, and event promotions.