Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Gaming - Week Ten

Gaming online or use of educational games in the classroom can prove to be a lively discussion topic. Some people are of the mind teachers and schools are not utilizing them enough, where others have accused teachers of “wasting” their child’s time by using them. These are two very opposite ends of the spectrum, with every opinion in between!

Gaming in schools should supplement the regular learning program in a way that can prove effectiveness through progress. Utilizing programs and online resources that have management and feedback components help address this issue. Students can progress at a highly rapid pace on skills based games and content related activities online. This level of success is highly rewarding and exciting to observe!

The 21st Century educator needs to embrace the facts:

*appropriate technology MUST supplement and enhance their learning programs
*times are changing exponentially
*we are not serving students well and doing them a huge disservice without technology instruction/utilization
*student motivation, rapid progress, and enthusiasm for learning through technology speaks for itself!

Obviously, school is no place for violent, inappropriate gaming. It would behoove society as a whole to not tolerate violent, inappropriate gaming period! However, it is a reality we face. Encouragement and education of students and their families to make appropriate personal choices regarding gaming and online usage should be included, as well as the suggestion to find a balance between gaming/computer use and outside activities/other interests. As with anything, gaming should be used in moderation and with purpose, whether educational or for entertainment.

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