Educational video games, the bane of each and every mom’s or dad’s existence; the begging for the hottest game or game system, the reasons not to do chores, the absence of refreshing air and sunlight! It’s enough to drive most parents over the edge; but what if you found out that all those hours spent in front of the Television, joystick in hand, was in fact informative? Prove it you say? All right let’s look at what gaming really improves.
Strategic Thinking – Most educational video games call for the player to think two or three moves in advance of their current scenario, the ‘what comes next’ way of thinking. With continuous exposure this becomes second nature in daily life as well.
Problem Solving – Tests have revealed that video games develop problem-solving skills. The majority of (if not all) games are focused on a challenge or mission which the player must then solve by conquering all hurdles.
Hand/Eye Coordination – Using a game controller is just as tough as learning to touch type or play the guitar and just as critical. Try it someday; it’s not easy getting the avatar to do what you want.
Decision Making Abilities – Being able to make quick decisions in a short amount of time has so many real world applications. Do you turn left or right, battle the dragon or the Cyclops, cease now or later on? Granted, there are not mythical beasts or Cyclops in real life but you get the concept.
Creativity – The old debate is that there is no need to use imagination in television, films, or gaming. Incorrect! Where else can you visualize yourself to be a powerful, robust barbarian or a sorcerer with tremendous forces? Imagination needs a place to begin and what better place than the brilliant imagery and unique scenarios offered in a video game? Of course you could always stare at a stack of blocks and see what comes to mind.
Exploration – Video role-playing games motivate the player to stray off the beaten path, take a chance and open the door, being unsure of what could be lurking behind it and socialize with other characters. It isn’t just a proposition but a necessity that gamers gather up their bravery and discover the unknown.
Memory – The worlds depicted in educational video games can be vast and being able to view maps and other help can affect not only the game but a player’s focus as well. To prevent this players will automatically commit to memory new landscape and remember which tasks must be accomplished to reach a specific purpose.
Consequences – All video games, whether computer or video, operate on a ‘action/reaction’ principle. Do action A and reaction B could happen. This is a great opportunity for both gamers and developers to learn about the outcomes of their actions.
Persistence, Commitment, Strength – Very few games can be completed in a day and if you can complete them that soon a lot of people feel scammed. In fact, some of the most popular video games take days or even a few months to complete.
Still not convinced? Try sitting down with your child’s video game and make it through level 1 without any assistance. Once you are successful, take another look at our list and decide on your own if we are right.
