Derek Kuipers

Derek Kuipers serves as Associate Professor of Serious Gaming at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences since 2020, where he leads the Lectorate Digital Innovation in Healthcare and Welfare. Previously, he contributed to establishing master's programs in Health Innovation, Serious Gaming, and Design-Driven Innovation at the University of Twente.

Education:

• MSc in Applied Educationalist, University of Twente
• PhD (2019), dissertation: "Design for Transfer"

Research Focus: His pioneering work centers on the Game Transfer Model that bridges educational theories with Health and Design disciplines. He introduced the concept of metaphorical recontextualization, which resolves the "serious gaming oxymoron" by transforming entertainment mechanics into effective learning tools. His research integrates design thinking with healthcare applications to maximize knowledge transfer through digital games.

Current Leadership: As lector (research chair), he directs the Digital Innovation in Healthcare and Welfare initiative, developing serious games that address real-world healthcare challenges through evidence-based design principles.