| Computers are here to stay. They are in nearly | | | | and your children's teacher will approve of that |
| every classroom and nearly every grade school | | | | type of screen time! |
| child is already comfortable using one. Computers | | | | Educational computer games can also help |
| bring cutting edge technology and current | | | | strengthen the thinking skills of students. Games |
| information to students. Their contribution can be | | | | that ask students to solve mysteries are a great |
| extended to include entertaining learning in the | | | | way to develop critical thinking skills in a fun, |
| form of computer games. | | | | supportive way. These types of games are the |
| Why are computer games being used in the | | | | ones that kids can play and learn without realizing |
| classroom? Are they simply there to fill time in | | | | that they are learning something! |
| place of board games or outdoor playing, or do | | | | When using computer games in the classroom, it |
| they serve an educational purpose? While games | | | | is important to monitor what your students are |
| are often used to fill those times when students | | | | doing. For example, you may find that a student |
| need something entertaining to do, they do serve | | | | always plays the basic math game that he knows |
| a very important purpose. | | | | he can win. He doesn't really need to practice in |
| Children enjoy using the computer. In fact, long | | | | spelling, so you might encourage him to embark |
| before most kids have thought about school they | | | | on a history mystery game instead. Whenever |
| have been on a computer. Video games, both | | | | possible, computer games should be used to work |
| computerized and on the television, are also | | | | on skills that a student needs to strengthen. |
| extremely popular with children. Children will play | | | | Like all things in education, computer games |
| computer games, so why not use them to | | | | require a balanced approach. Most children would |
| reinforce educational material while they play? | | | | be willing to play games all day long. Of course, |
| Computer games in the classroom do not replace | | | | this isn't a good way to teach students. On the |
| the teacher's role. They are used for practice and | | | | other hand, never allowing a student to play on |
| drill in most situations. While some subjects, such | | | | the computer could be harming him. He will be |
| as typing, are taught almost entirely using | | | | missing out on valuable practice time and a fun |
| computer software, the computer is used in | | | | way to approach learning. The balance should allow |
| other subjects for practice. Take spelling as an | | | | students to play, while at the same time providing |
| example. When students need to practice their | | | | traditional instruction throughout the school day. |
| spelling words, a simple computer game like | | | | So the next time you walk into your child's school |
| hangman could be used to help them practice in a | | | | and see her on the computer, don't worry. She is |
| fun, relaxed manner. | | | | being entertained, challenged and learning at the |
| Educational software can be used in the home as | | | | same time! Computer games play a vital role in a |
| well as the school. You know that your kids love | | | | well-balanced classroom, so take some time to |
| to play on the computer. Imagine giving them a | | | | thank your teacher for allowing your kids some |
| game to play that is fun while at the same time | | | | time to play! |
| works to strengthen their math skills. Both you | | | | |