Scientists say kids should play more video games

July 4th, 2007

I learned via Gaming Today that the Federation of American Scientists (founded by Manhattan Project scientists committed to ethical pursuits) actually believes kids should play more video games!

They write that video games “can teach higher-order thinking skills such as strategic thinking, interpretive analysis, problem solving, plan formulation, and execution, and adaptation to rapid change. With many technology companies farming out lower-level work to countries where employees come more cheaply, these are the sort of skills American students will need to possess once they hit the workforce.”

Note that FAS are developing three “serious games,” including one called Immune Attack. I think the game looks a bit too serious and educational and not quite enough fun and educational.

I’m not sure kids actually need more video game time. But I do think gaming is less of a worry than parents think, has the potential to be very useful, and at the very leasts is something people can relax about at least a little bit.

Entry Filed under: Popular Perception, Video Games