Contrary to the traditional belief that gaming is merely an
addictive source of entertainment and diversion, recent research has proved
that gaming has numerous benefits and key among them, is the development of
cognitive skills in both children and adults. Just as physical exercise helps
in improving and strengthening your muscles, cognitive games help to indulge
one's brain in constant stimulation, thus improving the brain's performance.
The following are some of the cognitive benefits of playing video games.
1. Improves coordination
When an adult or child is playing a video game, he or she is
not only staring at the computer inactively. The activities and actions on the
screen provide a lot of mental stimulation. For one to play, he or she will
need to coordinate their visual, audial and physical movement.
2. Improves problem-solving skills
Video games involve certain rules. This means that the
player has to think carefully before making any move to ensure that they stay
within the required rules of that particular game. The player needs to make
split- second decisions that will determine whether or not he or she will
advance to the next level.
3. Enhances memory
Playing your favorite video game may require both visual and
audial memory. The player is required to read or listen to the instructions
which might only be provided at the beginning of the game, thus the need to
remember them throughout the entire game. Mastery of the keys on your keyboard
helps you easily move your characters in the game. This helps improve your
memory, whether short- term or long-term.
4. Improves attention and concentration
Video games especially action games, have proven to be able
to capture the player's attention for the entire period of the game. This is
brought about by the player's need to achieve certain objectives within the
game, and be able to progress to the next level.
5. It is a great source of learning
Gaming is not only beneficial to adults and teenagers, but
to children as well. Many modern education institutions incorporate video games
as a teaching methodology. This helps these children improve their academic
skills by providing video games that are specifically aimed at enhancing their
cognitive and creative skills.
6. Improves the brain's speed
While gaming, the brain receives multiple stimulations, both
Visual and audial. According to research, individuals who play video games
frequently can process these stimulators faster than others. These stimulators
ensure that the brain is continuously working to interpret them.
7. Enhances multitasking skills
An action game, for example, may require you to be very
observant. It requires you to be able to move your joystick or keys while
looking at the various features on your screen such as energy levels, oncoming
adversaries, ammunitions left, available time among other factors, all which
are vital to winning. This ensures that the player can observe and react
accordingly to all requirements of that particular game.
8. Improves social skills
Online gaming enables many players to engage in a particular
game simultaneously. As such, there is constant communication between the
players which in turn results in the development of meaningful as well as
casual relationships among them.
This helps players meet new friends while also strengthening
bonds with their old friends.Though computer games might be beneficial, there
is need to play them in moderation. It is also important to pick the right game
as not all of them provide the same cognitive benefits. Age should also be a
factor. Small children should not be exposed to violent games.
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