03.24.08
Computer Games in the classroom?
Computer games and school education. These two aren’t concepts often linked but that’s what Keri Facer’s article is determined to change. There has always been debate about whether computer games should be included in the primary classroom; after all, what benefits do they provide? Dubbed in the article as being “the most powerful learning technology of our age”, computer games are interactive and require skills and understanding far beyond those learnt in a classroom. Games are incredibly social activities and develop hand-eye coordination; management of complex variables; interpersonal communication; literacy; and problem solving skills. And what’s more, the children love playing them.
With all the positive reasons to include computer games, the age old issue must be raised – that the amount of violence in computer games can’t be beneficial to children. Although the idea that one violent computer game will turn children into serial killers has lost validity, is it still of concern. Jana’s blog on this article provides some perspective on the topic, affirming that, while there is violence, children are learning “attack strategies”. She also believes that the teacher is able to use their discretion to monitor the games being brought into the classroom, ensuring that those used are appropriate and relevant to the children’s education.
The new programs that are available for use in the classroom, such as Sim City and DoomEd, are fun and interactive ways for students to learn the curriculum content. The games are offering real challenges and the students are using their knowledge and skills to overcome them. I think that they have potential to provide a new dimension to students’ learning.
