January 14th, 2010 | Posted by admin
Computers are here to stay. They are in nearly every classroom and nearly every grade school child is already comfortable using one. Computers bring cutting edge technology and current information to students. Their contribution can be extended to include entertaining learning in the form of computer games.
Why are computer games being used in the classroom? Are they simply there to fill time in place of board games or outdoor playing, or do they serve an educational purpose? While games are often used to fill those times when students need something entertaining to do, they do serve a very important purpose.
Children enjoy using the computer. In fact, long before most kids have thought about school they have been on a computer. Video games, both computerized and on the television, are also extremely popular with children. Children will play computer games, so why not use them to reinforce educational material while they play?
Computer games in the classroom do not replace the teacher’s role. They are used for practice and drill in most situations. While some subjects, such as typing, are taught almost entirely using computer software, the computer is used in other subjects for practice. Take spelling as an example. When students need to practice their spelling words, a simple computer game like hangman could be used to help them practice in a fun, relaxed manner.
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