Dustin's Spill on Video Games and Education

I believe that teachers should use the technology used by their students. The purpose of education is to peak the interest of the learner so that they feel what they are being taught is of useful. What better way is this achieved than by using technology that the students utilize the most? When the student can relate to what is being taught and actually uses the technology outside of the classroom, I believe that the student will be more attentive and will have a positive learning experience.

Online chatting and instant messaging can be of great value in the classroom. In my opinion, utilizing these tools in no different than me typing this blog. The only difference is the format in which it is presented and viewed. As I stated in answering the previous question, I believe that anytime that the teacher uses technology that the student utilizes the most, it will lead to a positive learning experience. So in answer to the question, no I do not believe that these tool have an adverse effect on the learner.

Text based communication is useful for asking questions pertaining to the lecture that is conducted. I am a supporter though of face to face interaction. From my own learning experience, I learn better in a face to face setting. I just feel as if I can get all of my questions answered this way. I am more of a visual learner, so at times I can easily get confused or misinterpret what the teacher might be trying to convey through a text based lecture. Now, I believe that text based learning is appropriate and beneficial for those situations when you might have a question or two. For the most part though, I believe that face to face interaction is more learner friendly. It is not as convenient, but speaking for myself, I find that I learn much more in this setting.


I am not a supporter of the podcast as a learning tool. I believe that is it just another way to passively deliver information. From my perspective, if a student can not sit in a classroom and absorb the lecture in person, I do not believe it is feasible for them to by listening to a podcast.


Video games are not apart of my study routine, although I believe that there are benefits to playing them. Video games help to build stronger hand-eye coordination. Some games also are strategy latent, in that you really have to use your mind and think outside of the box in order to defeat the game. I agree with the article in that children learn better from their peers. I do not think that this is a direct correlation to video games, but instead, for the mere fact that children can present the information to one another with clarity. I would allow my child to play video games everyday. As a youngster I played video games daily and I experienced no adverse effects from doing so. I believe that the notion that video games make people do irrational things is not sensible. If someone can be that easily influenced by a fictional game, than that individual is not mentally stable to begin with.