EducationDx
    ©2010
Sponsored Links
Games Online
Learning Can Be Fun!
Games Online
Who Doesn't Like Games?

     Everyone likes to play games online.  We have been playing games since we were children, and most of us are still kids at heart regardless of our chronological age.

     Games provide hours of recreation that can be played free on many websites.  Playing games is fun and motivational.  When people want to do something, learning follows naturally. 

Games and Student Learning in School

     How does this affect instruction in the classroom? Today's educators are looking closely at students' interactive learning style.  The learning style of some students may be influenced by the "electronics" culture in which they have been immersed. Games, aligned with their school curriculum, can help students "have fun" and remain engaged in learning.


Games Online
Electronics Environment

     Most children have computers in their homes and/or schools.  Many children have both electronic games and toys.  This exposure to electronic devices enables children to be familiar with and have the know-how to use many tools that were unknown to previous generations.

     Children are learning to operate these devices by observation and in some cases, actual instruction by parents, siblings or playmates. Once a child learns some basic mouse skills, many games can be found online for age-appropriate educational entertainment and learning (P-12).  

     Many games online don't require specialized knowledge.  Others help build knowledge and skills with challenging but attainable goals. There are educational games that teach the alphabet online and corresponding phonetic sounds.  Some teach, build and reinforce math skills, while some are intended for advanced students.  Today's electronics culture has more information added daily. 
    
Educational
Recreational
Family Time
This is an article about games online.  It is not a game website.
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
"It just looks like a silly old game!"
Playing games often involves:
  • planning,
  • achieving goals,
  • problem-solving and/or
  • overcoming obstacles
  • teamwork
--abilities that educators admire!
Sometimes games are just games.
Quiz

Who likes games?
a.  Children
b.  Teenagers
c.  Adults
d.  All of the above



Answer:
d.
APA Style:  Invernizzi, J. (2011). "Games Online." Retrieved December 21, 2011, from EducationDx, USA.
Web site: http://www.educationdx.com/games-online.html.

Parental Supervision at Home

     As with any type of Internet activity, parents should observe their child's web surfing.  Sometimes free game websites run ads to help defray costs of maintaining a website, particularly if they are not selling a product.  Even with "R" type ads blocked on a site, sometimes ad writers/designers get creative!  Direct your child to games that you think are appropriate for their age group and your family values.
College Students/Student (practice)Teachers

     Student teachers are always looking for creative ways to keep their students on task.  Using the excitement created by a game is one way to help them learn things more effectively in the classroom.  Student teachers can create their own games, have the students help or do it independently or in a group, or by going online to previewed websites.
Having Fun is Important for Balance

     Some games are just for fun!  Playing a fun game helps us to relax after a "hard" day at school (or work)!  It provides that temporary escape that we can all use.  Even if it is a game that you think might not be educational, you and/or your child may be acquiring some new skills, relaxing, or just having fun together.  Games, whether online or the old-fashioned board games, help make that family time special.

     Whether you are a parent, educator or future educator, you can use simulations and games to challenge children to think in new ways, apply their existing skills, and practice/learn new ones.  Games are fun, but also help us learn!

All Rights Reserved  ©2011  John A. Invernizzi, Ph.D.
+Children
+Teenagers
+Adults
Games!
   Other pages of interest on this site          EducationDx-Home     Coupons and Free Samples     Freebies    Dating Online    Brain Games