Whilst doing some work on another assignment, I came across a great article on computer games. The article is based on the idea that computer games could soon be used in formal educational settings as they are proving to promote socialisation and literacy. The article describes computer games as the “most powerful learning technology of our age.” Researchers and game companies are looking for ways to develop ’serious games’ where learning is integrated in to ‘real-world’ situations. There are of course a few hurdles that are mentioned: the issue of violence, and what “exactly” will the students learn form the games and how can we assess them? and finally, how would students feel if we brought something they enjoy doing in their free time into the classroom?

I’m not sure how well bringing computer games into the classroom will work, especially when a lot of schools only have 30 mins a week with computers. I also feel that the interest and motivation won’t last and that students will soon get bored of them. Then there is the case of students who don’t even like computer games, what will be the cause of action for them?