How affective are video games when it comes to student learning?
I read an interesting article about author and gamming supporter Steven Johnson. In this article he states that; ”gammers can be faster at visual recognition, can condition their brains to use less energy and can even be more social, confident and comfortable in problem-solving than those who don’t play”.
Johnson is such a believer in the enriching powers of video games that he’d like to see them come with a “cognitive challenge” rating alongside ratings for violence and language so parents are advised on their mental stimulation.
Another gaming supporter Elyssebeth Leigh, says they teach children how to interact with technology. And they can help children experiment with the world around them in a safe way – and learn about choices, strategy, risks and consequences without leaving the living room.
I am sure there are many supporters and critics out there in the world, but from what I have learn’t so far about using games and asimulations in the class rooms, they are an excellent education tool where both teachers and students can explore and create. I enjoy the fact that the student can be both the student and the teacher. Technology in our schools shake the rigid foundations of our school systems that have barely changed in 100 years!
