Video games have been popular for decades, making them one of the most lucrative forms of entertainment. Initially, this activity was mostly reserved for the younger generation, but over time, the older demographic joined the fray. This surge in interest has encouraged researchers to look into gaming, leading to exciting results.

Why Video Games Should Be Used in School

One of the main hurdles in bringing gaming to classrooms is the preconceived notion that it's just a playtime activity.

Luckily, thanks to scholars like Greg Toppo and James Paul Gee, there are key examples of how gaming can be applied in classrooms. Here are some of the top ones:

1. Encouraging STEM

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math programs.

These are some of the most grueling courses, and many students give up due to frustration. That's where gaming comes in.

The University of Oklahoma developed a calculus game to help students grasp the content better, and the results are fascinating.

It appears that adding a little bit of fun increases student mastery in these major subjects by an impressive margin.

2. Experiential Learning

Experiential learning encourages students to solve problems with a hands-on approach, which has some merits.

For example, the DragonBox Algebra game requires students to solve math equations in a fantasy setting.

As a result, the students pick up critical thinking skills while solving the problems in-game.

Learners can also acquire creative problem-solving skills, which will help them in the work environment.

3. Learning From Failure

In most learning spaces, failure is a big deal. The shame and disappointment sometimes outweigh the desire to learn, meaning some pupils give up easily.

In the long run, the fear of failure takes precedence, but that's not the case in gaming. 

Video games rely on their replayability for fun, meaning failure is part of the process.

Kids can fail as many times as possible with the goal in sight. Eventually, they gain some grit and tenacity that can come in handy in real life.

4. Content Engagement

Most students are actively learning only around 60% of school time, which means a lot of wasted hours. Introduce gaming, and this deficit can be compensated.

Games are pretty engaging and can make even the most frustrating activity fun.

So instead of increasing learning hours and homework, schools should engage students more by incorporating games into their classes to maximize their educational potential.

5. Making Complex Knowledge Fun

A popular game called Pokemon has a 3D matrix with 27,624 values. Despite its imposing figure, most middle school students know this matrix inside out once they've played it for a while.

Yet, surprisingly, the same kids have a tough time mastering the periodic table, which has less information to master. Why? 

Their attention is invested in the game because it is exciting; hence, they can easily digest the Pokemon information.

If they had to read manuals about the game in a classroom, most would have given up.

This is a perfect example of how gaming teaches skills that aid learning and makes even the most daunting task exciting and understandable.

‍

Positive Effects of Video Games on Kids

Aside from an enhanced learning experience, avid gamers inadvertently pick up passive skills whenever they engage in a session. These manifest as follows:

1. Problem-Solving and Logic

Gamers must solve problems and come up with solutions on the fly. That's how and why many gamers become pragmatic and can solve problems.  

2. Memory

Most games have puzzle elements and maps gamers need to master before making progress.

These games heavily impact memorization, and it's no surprise that most gamers have a high knowledge retention capacity. 

3. Multitasking

In most RPGs and simulators, multitasking is a vital element of the game. Gamers need to keep track of their environment while scaling up.

For example, in Minecraft, village raids can set someone back, so the player must be vigilant.

Next thing they know, their multitasking skills are on point as they're already used to the stress.

4. Quick Thinking

With multitasking come quick thinking and analysis, where players need to make split-second decisions that might impact their game.

This is most prevalent in fighting and racing games, where a lot is happening, and gamers don't have the luxury of time to think things through.

5. Risk-Taking

Risk-taking is an essential part of winning a game, and one must actively participate in the game, whether they understand it or not.

Kids pick up on this pretty fast and eventually learn that calculated risk-taking is an essential skill in life and school. 

‍

How Schools Can Implement Video Games

Playing video games allows students to learn multiple skills, so introducing them in the classroom has a lot of benefits. How can games be applied effectively in learning institutions, then?

1. Guidance

Guidance is a key element in school, as kids need a sense of direction when learning. Puzzles and world-building games are the best way to start.

These games help youngsters learn how to make decisions and are an excellent introduction to educational gaming content.

2. Challenges

Carefully selecting games with a level of expertise in mind helps kids grow. If a challenge is too hard, they may give up quickly, and if it's too easy, they may lose interest.

Students tend to yearn for more when the educational material is both fun and challenging.

3. Reflection

Creating school games requires structuring the information so that it can be retained and applied in class.

It's best to set up challenges within the game that incorporate familiar objects and scenarios that kids will encounter in real life.

‍