I really enjoyed our virtual class on video games in the classroom! It made me wonder about the multipurpose learning benefits of playing video games so I went on a search and these were the main points I found:
Increase in computer fluency:
Computer fluency is vital in this day and age, students will need to be able to use computer systems and software for their future jobs and education.
Developing hand-eye coordination:
Students will have to use the keyboard or mouse at the same time as looking up at the screen. This will develop their hand-eye coordination, which will help them in activities such as sports.
Evolving and speeding-up decision-making and problem-solving:
Time limits, and strategizing in video games allow students to develop problem-solving, critical thinking, memory, and decision-making skills.
Solidifies understanding of information:
Video games help students stay motivated and interested in the subject matter because they are absorbing information while having fun at the same time. Video games can be used to teach most subjects, like history, geography, literacy, science, and math.
Encouraging creativity:
Games often allow players to create their own characters, or customize settings and levels. This allows students to practice and develop creative thinking skills that will help them with problem-solving and inspiration in the future.
Developing social skills:
Many games require players to work together, communicate effectively, and solve problems as a team. Developing these skills will help students in life and their education.
While all these benefits are undeniable, we have to consider that having access to this technology may be much more difficult in some environments, or school districts than others. Additionally, unless offline versions of games are available reliable wi-fi will be a necessity which I have seen as a common issue in schools.
Overall, the list of learning benefits is not a short one. Why fight against our students love of video gaming when we can use it to our advantage?
