Video games have often been blamed for various issues affecting children and teenagers, but could playing video games actually have some intellectual benefits? Recent studies suggest that gaming might not be as negative as once thought, and it might even have some positive effects on academic performance and intellectual skills. Let’s explore the surprising ways in which gaming might make you smarter.
The Study from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
Researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology conducted a study on the relationship between video games and academic performance. The basis of the study was data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), which tests the math, reading, and science skills of 15-year-old students. The survey also pooled information regarding how much time students spent playing games and other factors such as their parent’s education level and occupation.
The researchers considered data from over 12,000 Australian students and found that playing video games had an important correlation to better academic scores. Students scoring above average on all three subjects tested: mathematics, reading, and science scored students who played video games almost daily. More particularly, they obtained 15 points above average scores in math and reading, as well as in science with a score of 17 points.
Correlation vs. Causation:
Even though a positive correlation was found between gaming and academic performance, it’s important to point out that correlation doesn’t necessarily mean causation. The author of the study has proposed several plausible explanations for this relationship. First, it may be that certain video games utilize concepts from math, science, or language to advance through the game. The other is that the more gifted students would rather play games that are education-based or strategic in nature.
It was observed that the research also shows that playing games each day may not necessarily translate into good performance in academics. Students who overplayed scored worse than those who played in moderation but consistently.
This might be because the opportunity cost of spending too much time playing is not being studied.
Other Studies Concerning Games and Grades:
Generally, the question of whether video games result in improved academic performance has remained a topic of discussion among many researchers for years. Several studies have been conducted in this area previously, and the results are mixed. In 2016, a study in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology and in other fields showed that children aged 6 to 11 who played video games obtained better grades. However, a 2009 review of PISA results published in PLoS One found that playing games had no significant impact on academic performance. On the other hand, a study from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2000 found a slight negative correlation between GPA and time spent playing video games.
Although these studies have mixed results, the Australian new study has better control over external influences, such as the household and school environment, compared to previous studies.
Effects of Various Video Game Genres:
All video games are not alike, and what one plays will have different effects on cognitive skills and academic performance. Research shows that certain game genres have certain benefits:
- Educational Games: Issues in Mental Health Nursing (2009) shows that educational games are positively correlated with higher grades. Many games have educational ingredients that teach pupils about their subjects at school.
- MMORPGs: According to Educational Technology Research and Development from 2008, MMORPGs allow for the thinking of higher orders. It enables players to create strategies and engage in a more complex manner when solving problems to achieve an outcome in the virtual world.
- Strategy Games: Strategy games are found to teach economics, history, and critical thinking. In a 2005 paper, the Educause Evolving Technologies Committee pointed out that strategy games may aid students in learning several important skills.
- Action and Adventure Games: Studies have sometimes found links between violent games and attention disorders. Other research has indicated, however, that action and adventure games enhance hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and reaction times.
- Puzzle Games: Puzzle games challenge players to think critically and solve problems, which can enhance cognitive abilities and analytical skills.
The Intellectual Benefits of Gaming:
Beyond academic performance, playing video games can offer several cognitive benefits:
- Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Many video games require players to solve puzzles, complete tasks, and overcome challenges. This can enhance problem-solving skills and encourage creative thinking.
- Enhanced Memory: Playing video games improves short-term and long-term memory. The more players have to remember patterns, sequences, or storylines, the more their memory functions will be improved.
- Better Multitasking Ability: Action and strategy games usually require the management of multiple tasks at the same time. Such action can enhance multitasking ability and cognitive flexibility.
- More concentration and attention: Video games improve concentration and attention. The faster-paced video games teach a player to quickly process information while remaining attentive to the smallest of details.
- Spatial Skills: Video games, most of which involve navigation in virtual space, are believed to improve spatial skills and hand-eye coordination.
Balance Between Gaming and Academics:
While gaming can have a cognitive benefit, it is vital to balance out gaming with academics. Excessive gaming can negatively affect study time and academic performance. Here are some tips to balance gaming with academics:
- Time Limits: Allocate specific time for gaming so it does not compromise study time or other responsibilities.
- Prioritize Schoolwork: Make sure to do all your schoolwork and assignments before the time to do the games.
- Select Games to Enhance Your School Work: Be careful about games that promote school subjects learned at school or any others.
- Break Intervals: Suggest break-taking to prevent tiredness during this play session
- Follow-Up and Revision: Check one’s school progress to revise game habits to achieve more and help them win.
Conclusion:
The question of whether gaming can make you smarter is complex and complicated. While some studies suggest a positive link between gaming and academic performance, it’s important to remember that moderation and balance are key. Different game genres offer various intellectual benefits, and incorporating educational and strategy-based games can enhance learning and problem-solving skills.
Ultimately, gaming can be a valuable tool for intelligence development when approached thoughtfully and responsibly. By setting limits, prioritizing academics, and choosing games that promote learning, it’s possible to enjoy the intellectual benefits of gaming without compromising academic success.
FAQs:
1. Can playing video games improve academic performance?
Some studies suggest that playing video games regularly can improve academic performance in subjects like math, reading, and science.
2. Do all video games have the same impact on learning?
No, different game genres have different impacts. Educational and strategy games are often associated with better academic achievement and cognitive skills.
3. How much time should be spent gaming each day?
It’s important to find a balance. Excessive gaming can be detrimental, so setting specific time limits and prioritizing schoolwork is recommended.
4. What cognitive benefits can gaming offer?
Gaming can improve problem-solving skills, memory, multitasking abilities, attention span, and spatial awareness.
5. Are violent video games harmful to cognitive development?
Some research suggests that violent games may be linked to attention problems, while other studies indicate potential benefits for hand-eye coordination and reaction times.
6. How can gaming and academics be balanced effectively?
Setting time limits, prioritizing schoolwork, choosing educational games, taking breaks, and monitoring academic progress are key strategies for balancing gaming and academics.