Video games, according to an expert, can be an excellent way to measure kids' ability to learn. That is despite certain instances where kids who are good at video games are also diagnosed with learning disabilities.
Dr. Kimberly Nix Berens, a scientist-educator, believes that for good video game players also to be useful in learning, the school system would also need to adapt.
In her article on the website, Working Mother, Dr. Berens said that it is about time that parents and schools develop a different take on video games and kids who play them.
READ ALSO : Studies Say Keyboards Can Be Full of Bacteria, but How Can We Keep Them Clean? Vioguard Explains
Children who are good video game players
Dr. Berens believes that there is a reason why kids become addicted to playing video games. It is because these games are designed for kids to master them. There is positive reinforcement among kids that motivates them to play and learn how to be good at the game. That causes children to engage in the practice - and eventually be good at playing the game.
In Dr. Beren's experience as a scientist-educator, she met a lot of those good video game players who tend to fail in performing well in school. She says that this has something to do with the education system.
How are video games designed?
Video games are designed in a way that kids can master the more manageable level before advancing to a difficult level.
While going through each level, video game players earn points and learn more about the game. Through these reinforcements, children improve their performance and can do better in the next levels.
Difference between video games and schools
Dr. Berens believes that there is a massive difference between the way video games are designed and how the education systems work.
In the current education system, lessons and tests are given right next to other lessons and tests, and this means that even when there is a kid who has not perfected or fully grasped a topic, a teacher will move on to the next lesson.
Studies have shown that it is through positive stimulation that video game players develop cognitive functioning of the brain.
In another article from Working Mother, experts suggest that parents should also consider screentime and playing video games as a good thing for kids. That is because research proves that it can help in the development and learning of a child.
