Zbornik radova (Univerzitet u Kragujevcu. Pedagoški fakultet u Užicu) (Jan 2017)
Computer video-games as educational media in younger age: Advantages and disadvantages
Abstract
Man is accomplished through work and play. The intellectual and social advantages of game, as a children's activity, are extensively documented by numerous researches, as well as by pedagogical-psychological theories. Game contributes to the development of psycho-physical functions of a child and his/her abilities and knowledge; it creates conditions for the formation of an emotionally stable, socialized and creative personality. Therefore it can be said that game is a special form of learning. The modern age is characterized by computerization and the general breakthrough of information-communication technologies (ICT) in all spheres. We are witnessing the situations in which children of all ages are more and more frequently using modern technologies, and that the generations of the so-called 'Digital natives' are growing up with the everyday use of ICT. This has also caused a change in the very nature of a game, which transforms itself from an activity usually performed outdoors into the activity performed in front of a computer. The paper considers the transformation that the game has suffered, and how this transformation in the video game reflects on the educational character of the game itself. The positive educational effects of video games on children are also considered, as well as the negative effects of the modern form of entertainment.
