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Computer Games in the Classroom - Are They the Way Forward?
By Roger Vanderlely
There has been an increase in the push to computerize classrooms in Australia which has corresponded with the integration of what is called Information and Communication Technology, or ICT for short, into the official curriculum. This push has been across the board in terms of learning areas, with all subjects now required either officially or unofficially to maximize their use of computers as learning tools. Learning to operate computers is no doubt an essential skill for young people today. Many jobs require at least basic computer skills which may include spreadsheet use, office software familiarity and even a little technical knowhow such as how to replace printer cartridges, find correct file locations on the main computer system and so on. There may even be a benefit in students having some familiarity with photo editing software and basic drawing programs. It does seem though that the push for computer use is going way past these basic skills. The Victorian Institute of Teaching (a Government body) recently published an article on computer games in the classroom and stated "There are many avenues for combining the use of video games with classroom curriculum." (March edition of iTeach 2008). They then go on to give examples of games being used in English and Math to teach course content. While it may be true that young people are more focused when playing computer games than during regular classroom work, the extended use of computers in this manner fails to address some significant issues. First is the ability of the student to concentrate on a task without the lure of ongoing entertainment. One of the functions of school is to prepare young people for life in society. As adults these young people will not be continuously entertained simply in order to have them achieve a set task or master a required skill. They will be expected to do it of their own accord or face the consequences of not doing so. Young people need to build up the skills and experiences to cope with these situations before they leave school or they will experience a significant shock once they enter society. The second main issue is that of basic skills. Knowledge such as multiplication facts, addition skills, basic literacy can be mastered through application and effort. Many things need to be memorized and that can only occur in an environment of quiet concentration. The use of computer games with their rapidly shifting screen images and often distracting audio effects does not provide the correct environment for this type of learning. The extended use of computer games in schools is on the whole contrary to the "sit down and do your work" approach to learning. This runs the risk of turning schools into entertainment zones where young people are occupied rather than taught. If this approach continues, education will become a circus and learning standards will continue to decline, leaving our children to face the future without the basic skills they need to survive and thrive in society. Computers must be included in the curriculum, there is no doubt. But their use needs to be restricted to applications that the children will need to master prior to leaving school, in order to cope in the workplace. It is not acceptable to simply sit the children in front of computer games at school just because they like playing games and it keeps them quiet. Roger Vanderlely. For easy to use math worksheets and science experiments, as well as simple explanations of solar science, visit http://www.green-planet-solar-energy.com, the Green Planet Solar Energy website. The site contains solar power facts, technical specifics, advice for installations, a kids' section and more. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Vanderlely
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