Do video games have a place in today’s education system?  There are many spectators that would say no to this statement. I, however, think that educators should encourage the use of technology in the classroom. Whether the public likes it, or not, video games are an integral part of modern society. Instead of chastising children for spending their free time on the computer or game system, find out more information about what skills are being used when they are playing said games. Recent studies have shown that video game involvement increased literacy skills in students as young as four years old. This is not to say that you should let your 4 year old play Call of Duty. Game playing would need to be monitored, as well as using age-appropriate titles. Bringing video games into the classroom can have a positive effect on student learning, as well as a positive effect on their attitudes about learning.

If a student is given the choice to play an educational video game, versus reading a book at school, more often times than not, the student will choose the video game. Select video games that work on math skills, literacy skills, and basic skills like critical thinking and problem solving. Many games require a specific set of problem solving skills that are unique to each title. They allow students to create a completely unique and personal world at the tip of their fingers. Many games have been noticed by specialist for their foundational problem solving nature. These games include; The Legend of Zelda, Bakugan: Defenders of the Core, and Starcraft, to name a few.