Video Games, Research Paper Example

Some people may argue that video games attract people because they are fun and not because of their learning potential. It is true that video games started as source of recreational entertainment but since then games have evolved tremendously not only in terms of artificial intelligence but also in their potential as learning tools. Video games prove that learning can be fun. In the age of internet, many of us complain that our children have shorter time spans because of their multi-tasking lifestyles. If true, it is even more of a challenge to keep children engaged in learning and video games have tremendously potential due to their fun element. Even if the cause and effect relationship is not clear, the fact remains that video games have already proven their learning potential. Formula One drivers have been known to practice on video games to get a better feel of the tracks which demonstrates the realism found in latest video games (Dutton, 2010). Major global companies like Johnson & Johnson, Volvo, and Hilton Hotels use video games to train their employees (Havenstein, 2008). Thus, care should be taken not to form opinions on the basis of the past experiences but a better option is to investigate how video games can be specifically developed for educational purposes. The above examples show that video games can be used to teach and the intellectual levels or the existing capabilities of the users are independent factors with no bearing on the potential of video games.

Like every technology, video games have both positive and negative uses. Internet can be a great learning tool or it can be a source of endless entertainment with no productivity. Just because a technology is misused by some doesn’t diminish its potential. And the concerns that video games will prevent children from developing social skills are also exaggerated. Far more people are engaged with social networking media such as Facebook and Twitter and digital life has become an inevitable part of our lives. Even businesses and academic institutions have embraced it. We are witnessing some changes in social fabric of the society but that is no reason to panic. It’s all part of human evolution that always accompanies revolutionary technologies. Over time, the society will figure out more effective solutions to social dilemmas posed by virtual lifestyle.

References

Dutton, F. (2010, December 12). F1 driver uses videogame for practice. Retrieved June 28, 2011, from http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-10-12-f1-driver-uses-videogame-for-practice

Havenstein, H. (2008, August 29). Video games poised to boost corporate training. Retrieved June 28, 2011, from http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9113861/Video_games_poised_to_boost_corporate_training