Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Despite the growing popularity of computer and video games, academic researches on games are somewhat limited. Among those existing studies, most of them are focused on the violence in games and its negative effects. Though is has long been acknowledged that computer and video games are beneficial in certain domains, there is no comprehensive study on the positive effects of computer games. In this paper, current literature on computer game effects, especially the positive effects in learning are reviewed. Classification of computer games is discussed. This review of positive effects of computer games is based on the classification of computer games by its purpose as for education or for entertainment. Positive effects of educational games cover the areas of learning, motivation, retention memory, spatial skills, utility for special groups, and cognitive abilities. For entertainment games, positive effects in training and academic performance are discussed.