Monthly theme - August 2026 - Gaming and Creative Industries
August's theme in The Data Lab Community is Gaming & Creative Industries!
This month, we're exploring the relationship between creativity, gaming, data and AI. More than just entertainment, games are complex, data-rich environments where technology and imagination combine to create engaging, responsive experiences. AI can help shape characters, generate immersive worlds, personalise gameplay and identify unusual behaviour.
Across three events, we will broaden the conversation beyond game development itself. We will examine what graduate earnings data reveals about creative degrees and wider inequalities, showcase practitioners currently using AI within gaming, and experience a game designed to encourage people to think differently about their finances and pensions. The programme will demonstrate how creativity, data and playful design can influence behaviours, communicate complex ideas and inspire new approaches.
Events 🎟️
As part of our activities throughout the month, we're running a whole host of events and webinars related to the theme. Make sure to register for the ones you'd like to attend via the links below!
- Understanding the Creative Graduate Earnings Penalty: Rip-off University Degrees or Under-Rewarded Careers? - 18 August 2026 13:00 - 13:50 BST [Online]
Dr Orian Brook, Chancellor’s Fellow in Social Policy at the University of Edinburgh, will share findings from her analysis of England’s Longitudinal Educational Outcomes dataset. Previous research suggests that creative arts graduates earn less than graduates in other subjects, even after accounting for institution, gender, age, ethnicity and socio-economic background. Using an intersectional approach and data visualisation, Orian reveals a more complex picture.
- Exploring the Technology Behind Modern Gaming Experiences - 25 August 2026 17:30 - 19:30 BST [Edinburgh, UK + Online]
Join us as our two presenters share insights from their work at the intersection of data, AI, gaming and creativity. Through their talks, we’ll hear practical perspectives on how these technologies are being used to develop new ideas, enhance creative processes and create richer, more responsive experiences.
- How Data, Design and Play Are Reshaping Pension Engagement - 27 August 2026 12:30 - 13:30 BST [Online]
Discover how Scottish Widows is using the power of play to make pensions and long-term financial planning more engaging, accessible, and meaningful. This session explores how game design can educate, motivate and empower people to take positive action towards their financial future.
Upcoming themes 📆
Here's a reminder of what we have coming up for the rest of 2026!
- August - Gaming and Creative Industries 🎨
- September - Financial Sector 🏦
- October - Health and Life Sciences 🦠
- November - Data Visualisation 📈
If you are interested in contributing to any of our monthly themes, let us know by completing this short form, and we'll get back to you with more info!
We'll help promote events that align with our themes to our 8000+ members, offering an excellent opportunity to reach new audiences and amplify your activities. If you would like some more info on how you can get involved, whether that is by organising an event or sharing other relevant content, get in touch at [email protected], and we'd be happy to chat!