Saturday 20 April 2013

Q is for ... Quandry

Q is for ... Quandary

I never liked video games. I played Sonic The Hedgehog and Lemmings maybe once or twice as a child, and never got into it. Maybe it was because I thought these games were so superficial and unrelated to real life that they never interested me. I wasn't interested in the fighting games -  I was interested in developing relationships and building friendships, like most girls my age.
If you were to ask me if I think video games have influenced and shaped society into producing some of the violence we have witnessed in recent times, I would say yes, but I don't think it is the only factor. I think there are many many other influences out there, but I think video games have contributed somewhat.
But, I think there is still some hope. I don't think all video games have a negative effect on society. I found this website: http://www.quandarygame.org/ which I have never played, or even know much about, but seems a great learning tool, rather than a fighting tool.
The makers say that "this game develops skills such as critical thinking, perspective-taking and decision-making. Quandary provides a framework for how to approach ethical decision-making without telling players what to think". And it apparently aligns with Common Core Standards.
Use it or lose it! Is what they say, and I think it is really important for children to develop the ability to think and analyse, as it is these skills which are critical in all aspects of life today. This, however, takes work, just like anything. And normally if it is hard, then kids probably don't want to do it. Maybe it is games like these which will help schoolchildren develop these necessary skills for their future.
I'm still not s huge fan of video games; I would rather interact with real people. However, there is a big portion of the population who are big fans, and maybe they would find games like these entertaining and hopefully even useful.
 

7 comments:

  1. You've been nominated for a Liebster Award! Check it out at
    http://www.mychillthoughts.com/2013/04/recognition-rules-and-random-facts.html

    Congratulations!

    -Cristyl

    ReplyDelete
  2. Just like any other technology, video games can be used in a positive or negative way.

    Damyanti @Daily(w)rite Co-host, A to Z Challenge 2013

    Twitter: @AprilA2Z
    #atozchallenge
    AZ blogs on Social Media

    ReplyDelete
  3. Damyanti is right there. In fact video game share similar technology with interactive education.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love video games, especially strategy games - they can be a good learning tool, but I guess the idea of the game has to hook you first.
    Interesting post. :-)
    Short Story Ideas & Just Ermie

    ReplyDelete
  5. Will have to check out the link to the game. I think it's a great thing for educators to use technology and games when teaching their kids. It keeps them engaged.

    Chontali Kirk
    chontalikirk.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  6. Stopping by from the A to Z Challenge. Enjoy reading your post. Video games are a hot topic in our home. Each of my children use technology differently. One loves the entertainment and collaborating with his friends. My other 2 look more towards learning and brain challenges. We will have to check the link you provided.

    Raising Arizona in Wisconsin

    ReplyDelete
  7. I tend to like video games- but I don't play often. I enjoyed sonic when I was younger but I'm not that dedicated person who plays all weekend long trying to beat the game.
    New follower.
    ~Summer
    My Blog Post

    ReplyDelete