10 Benefits of educational computer games

The benefits of educational video games are given below:

• 1. ICT and Early Childhood: the use of computer- and internet- based educational games By Angela Hawks and Carlie Reason
• 2. Interactive computer/ video games Defined as: Type of activity performed on screen that follows a game structure Consisting of: specific rules boundaries and Rewards
• 3. Kids and Computer- Internet based games utilised as springboard for
  developing computing skills & strategies in early childhood classroom Basic skills appear in these games Using a mouse Navigating around the screen Clicking, dragging, double clicking & other fundamental skills Used- by any age group in every country throughout the world in both school and home contexts
• 4. Rationale for choosing this topic As ICT’s are so pervasive in society with the coming of the digital age, it is valuable to learn the skills associated with their use from an early age (Shaffer, 2006). in the 2006 financial year, Australians spent more than $1 billion on digital game hardware and software ( Department of Education and Training, 2010) 79% of Australian households have a device for playing computer and video games (reference)
• 5. 'Commonwealth of Australia' study- 94% of students had played computer games 19% of those at school ICT can help change teaching and learning Student centered Skill appropriate

• 6. Government & teachers are focusing on the benefits that technological literacy brings to the classroom. Teachers are utilizing computer games as yet another method of catering to the different cognitive learning needs.
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• 7. 2005 report found children who used appropriate software had improved: IQ scores Non- verbal skills Dexterity and Long- term memory Governments support by policy & initiatives allowing schools to allocate substantial portions of their annual budgets to technology.
• 8. Parents’ thoughts on computer games many positive aspects of game play other than enjoyment & happiness. 73% of parents say games help their children to learn about technology. 68% say games help their children to learn maths. 64% say games help their children to learn to plan
• 9. Recent article: 'Aussie kids struggle with computers' Only 57% of year 6 students reached or exceeded the proficient standard for ICT literature
• 10. Developmental benefits from computer games Increased hand/ eye coordination Motor skills honed Problem- solving skills utilised Strategy and planning required to play Decision- making required for play Logic skills developed Goal setting Multi-tasking An improved sense of self- esteem from mastering skills & progressing through levels
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