Digital Games and Learning

Why do we have to scrutinize the influence of digital games in todays education? Today, our children are immersed in electronic media. They are starting to expose and to use technologies and media at a much younger age than previously thought. As a matter of fact, the uses of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and multimedia in education have been parts of the instructional system. Interestingly, despite having the same multimedia capability as CAI software, the potential learning impact of digital games is often discounted by parents and educators. This negative impression toward children playing digital games comes from results of outdated studies about childrens game-playing behaviors. The purpose of this book is to raise the level of awareness of the importance of digital games in child learning. This study tries to create a connection between digital games with childrens cognition and determine if digital games facilitate childrens cognitive learning processes. The book is addressed to professionals in instructional technology like educators and instruction designers. It is also directed towards researchers in childrens play, computer and video games, and instructional materials.