james robinson computer games and education how computer games can be used as an educational tool

James RobinsonComputer Games and Education

How Computer Games can be Used as an Educational Tool

Civilization

History

Civilization Revolution Age of Empires Oregon Trail

Medical Field Marble Mania Test at Banner Good

Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix After playing, players

showed a 48% improvement in surgical simulations to non-players.

Dimention Math Games

Math Games University of Central Florida study June

2008 200 Students played educational math

games from Dimention Games, during an 18 week period

The students increased average test scores by 8.07 points (out of 25).

Other students averaged an increase of 3.47

Study The difference between

simulations/games and conventional instruction in student performance

68 separate studies compiled 56% found no difference 32% favored simulations/games 12% favored conventional instruction 7 out of 8 showed math games to be

superior to conventional instruction

Conclusion

Games give the ability to perform simulations and keep the user engaged and interested

New technology, more possibilities

References

Randel, J.M., Morris, B.A.,Wetzel,C.D.,& Whitehill, B.V. “The Effectiveness of Games for Educational Purposes: A review of Recent Research.” Simulation & Gaming, 1992

Reilly, Michael. “A Wii warm-up hones surgical Skills.” NewScientist. 19 Jan 2008

Riedel, Chris. “UCF Study Finds Video Games Increase Student Achievement.” The Journal. June 2008