GAMING Why do video games capture kids' attention for hours? Many video games require players to master skills in demand by today's employers; games are based on challenge, reward, learning through doing and guided discovery. This is in contrast to "skill-and-drill" techniques used by many schools. James Paul Gee says that we often give too much verbal information ahead of time. He says that video games give verbal information "just in time" when and where it can be used and on demand as the player realizes he or she needs it. The Summit on Educational Games 2006 by the American Federation of Scientists says that games use strategic thinking, interpretative analysis, problem solving, plan formulation and execution, and adaptation to rapid change. Why aren't educational games as engaging? Most games are not compatible with the 45 minute class period. Many take hours to learn to play. However, games have a violent, addictive side too. In the middle of David Perry's talk, he plays a video about gaming addiction that is disturbing. I read each entry on the class blog, but I didn't find a lot about the effect of violent video games on behavior. Personally, I can't help but believe that a steady diet of virtual violence can not be healthy.
According to the Media Wise Guide to Online Gaming, 8.5% of gamers are pathalogical players who have trouble paying attention in school, have poor grades, and more health problems. They are more likely to have the games in their bedrooms and spend twice as much time playing games. This guide had some suggestions for parents: allow for one hour a day of gaming, avoid first-person shooter games, do not put games in bedrooms and homework/chores come before games. This guide has an interesting self-test for gamers to see if they are possibly addicted. It is called the "I'd rather" test. There are also resources for parents to seek help if they believe their child is addicted.
- 43% of gamers are female
- average age of a gamer is 30
- 83% of games have no violent content
- gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry
- gaming is no longer for the single player---most games are now done online with multiple players
What does this mean to me as an educator?
I agree that most educational games are dull and boring compared to the commercial games. (see the Summit on Educational Games 2006 to see many reasons why). Hopefully, there will be a move toward more engaging educational games in the near future. I can see myself recommending the Media Wise Guide to Online Gaming, to parents if they mention concern over the amount of time their children are playing video games. I feel strongly that the violent video games are detrimental to children; however, I understand that others may disagree with me.
You presented some powerful research!
ReplyDeleteThough there aren't a lot of games these days based on learning (I still remember playing Numner Crunchers in Grade 4) I know there are games that still give educational information. I remember in High School passing a test I never even study for because I played Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater every day after school. The game is based in the 1960's, and they do discuss things from the first Sattlelight into space, and the Cold War.
ReplyDeleteA lot of games also good for reading (mostly the older gen games) so it's pretty much reading a book with visuals.
I also play a lot of games, and many others like me find video games as a stress reliever. Sure there are people who are out there who spend day and night playing violent video games. Watching something violent for so long is never good for you, Video games, movies, or anything other. People need to learn how to control their addiction, and make sure there is more balance in their life instead of just video games. Now a days anything can be addicting.