Video games often get a bad reputation as sedentary activities that do little more than waste time and influence violent tendencies. However, there is very little evidence linking video games with violent tendencies or sedentary lifestyles.
So, what are some benefits of playing video games? According to the Canadian Center for Digital Media Literacy, video games
-Provide fun and social forms of entertainment
-encourage teamwork and cooperation when played with others
-make kids feel comfortable and confident with technology
-increase children's self confidence and self esteem as they master the games
-provide points of common interest and opportunities for socialization
-develop skills in reading, math, technology, and problem-solving
-encourage participation in related offline activities, such as reading or sports
-encourage civic participation
-improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
Wow that's a lot of benefits! So, why don't we promote video games more in education?
Those opposed to video games will often point out that they do not encourage outside, physical activity, because they are played indoors while sitting. There are also those who accuse video games with distracting children from everyday life and getting them 'addicted' to the game by becoming hyper focused with play.
While these accusations are not without merit, there are few if any studies to support the hypothesis that video games are harmful. While some, children and adults alike, may become obsessed with defeating that new level or villain of the game, moderation can allow kids to understand time management by balancing video game time with other daily activities, including outdoor play.
For many teens and tweens, the age of playing dress up and pretending to be superheros in the backyard is over, but that does not mean they can't still benefit from dramatic play. Video games allow teens and tweens to continue development through dramatic play.
The following is a list of popular video games and how they can benefit learning:
The Magic School Bus explores the solar system, the rain forest, and other adventurous places kids do not have access to going to. The game encourage exploration and navigation, as well as providing a balance between fun and learning.
Prodigy is a game that encourages problem solving through mathematics. Kids explore a fantasy world with challenges that can only be solved by completed a math exercise correctly.
Scribblenauts Unlimited improves cognitive skills through language and problem-solving challenges. Players get different objects and must apply adjectives in them to complete a task.
The Oregon Trail video game dates back to the 1970's and is one of the most popular video games in history. The game takes place in the 1800's and players must survive a journey on the Oregon Trail across the country. The game teaches players spacial awareness, improve vocabulary, teaches the concept of money and currency, provides leadership opportunities, encourages problem solving, and even has representations of family dynamics.
Endless Oceans allows players to learn about marine biology by exploring the depths of the ocean and its inhabitants. Players will learn about a variety of different plants and sea creatures, while also engaging in the skills that teach navigation and spacial awareness.
Civilization VI is a more sophisticated game, perfect for older tweens and teens. IT takes place in 4000 BC and plays must build a civilization capable of surviving until 2050 AD. The game is historically accurate, including world leaders, city names and locations, and research subjects of the time. Players will learn strategy and problem solving skills, as well as history.
Big Brain Academy focuses on the concept of measuring a player's brain mass. Players must answer questions and solve problems, such as shape matching, image identifying, color coordination, and more.