In this episode of Why Distance Learning, Seth Fleischauer, Tami Moehring, and Allyson Mitchell welcome Alan Tang, founder of Collaboration Laboratory, to explore the power of play as a core instructional strategy in live virtual learning. They dig into what happens when games aren’t the reward—but the curriculum itself. Alan shares how CoLab uses escape rooms, missions, and collaborative challenges to build communication, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking for kids around the world.

The conversation covers how CoLab builds safe, judgment-free cohorts that span cultures, how facilitators become coaches, and why giving students agency and space to fail leads to deeper learning. From “Elemental Escape” to avocado-themed risk challenges, this episode reveals a vibrant new model of education—where learning is playful, purposeful, and profoundly human.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Why distance learning is uniquely suited for global, collaborative play
• How CoLab designs challenges that teach soft skills in high-stakes games
• The coaching model that blends structure and autonomy for kids aged 7–15
• Creating psychological safety in virtual cohorts from 25+ countries
• How feedback from students and facilitators drives content innovation
• Alan’s vision for future adult and school-based applications of CoLab
• The role of play in building empathy, leadership, and resilience

Episode Links:

• Collaboration Laboratory Website
• Connect with Alan Tang on LinkedIn

Host Links:

1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.
2. Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning provides meaningful global learning experiences that prepare students across the globe for success in an interconnected world.