Games, Brains and Learning
With Dr Paul Howard-Jones (University of Bristol)
Monday 11 February 2013
3.00pm to 4.00pm
Room A501, Checkland Building, Falmer
There are at least two different views on the value of computer games for children’s development and learning: they may either provide a threat or an opportunity. Insights from neuroscience are providing some clues as to why video games are so engaging, and research suggests that, unlike most other types of technology, they may be a “special” environmental influence. In this lecture it will be argued that the same neural and cognitive processes underlie both the more negative and the more positive potential of video games, and that we need to understand more about these processes to ensure they benefit, rather than disrupt, our children’s education and development. Some recent research to investigate the neural mechanisms of gaming, as well as attempts to apply such understanding in the classroom, will be presented and discussed.