Growing up I remember playing board games such as "The Game of Life, Scrabble, and Monopoly", fortunately all these games are still around but digital versions have been created as substitution. I think it is completely unnecessary to have something digital spin for you instead of dice, letters represented on a screen, or to have a credit card instead of cash. Traditional board games should stay the way they were intended to be played.
When I grew older I started to dabble into the video game world. I thoroughly enjoyed Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and the first model of game boy. On the computer I played the old school "Duke Nukem, and Solitaire." In middle school I discovered "Snood, Roller-coaster tycoon, and The Sims."
Now children play video games on their ipods, phones, and wii's. It is undoubtedly children's biggest past time. I am realistic in knowing that we can not stop our children from being interested an displaying these games. I would never suggest taking these consoles away from your children. I do suggest letting your children explore these games with limitations. It is unhealthy for children to sit in front of a screen all day but these games do have educational benefits.
The article "Welcome to Our Virtual Worlds" introduces us to the world of "Pro-Ams" which are " professional amateurs- become experts at whatever they have developed a passion for." I can empathize with this 100%, I am passionate about education and technology and look where I am now.
Completely discouraging and punishing children about video games will only create more obstacles. So lets use these technologies in productive and innovative ways.
Positives of Gaming
- Fine motor skills
- Life skills in games such as "The Sims" or "Zoo Tycoon"
- Self expression
- Social interaction
- critical thinking skills
- Ownership
