Unlocking Intelligence: The Surprising Benefits of Video Games for Kids
A recent study has turned the tables on the common belief that video games are detrimental to young minds. Researchers from the Netherlands, Germany, and Sweden discovered several benefits of video games, including an increase in intelligence among children!
Study Overview
This study, published in Scientific Reports, carefully accounted for variables such as genetics and socio-economic background, making its findings particularly noteworthy. The study observed 9,855 children in the U.S., aged 9 to 10, tracking their screen time habits.
On average, these kids spent 2.5 hours a day watching TV or online videos, 1 hour playing video games, and half an hour socializing online.
Key Findings
Two years later, data from over 5,000 of these children living in the United States revealed that those who spent more time playing video games saw an increase of 2.5 IQ points above the average.
This increase in IQ was measured through tasks assessing reading comprehension, visual-spatial processing, and memory, among other cognitive skills.
Video Games & Intelligence
Interestingly, the study found no significant cognitive effects from watching TV or using social media. While the study focused solely on U.S. children and didn’t differentiate between types of video games, it supports the idea that intelligence can be developed and isn’t a fixed trait.
Neuroscientist Torkel Klingberg from the Karolinska Institute emphasized that video games might help boost intelligence, challenging the notion that screen time is inherently harmful.
However, researchers acknowledge that more studies are needed to explore the broader effects of screen time on physical activity, sleep, and overall well-being.
The Role of Alpha Esports & Technology
At Alpha Esports & Technology, we are committed to improving these aspects by incorporating physical stretches and exercises and promoting healthy gaming habits within our community. Our esports and gaming programs also emphasize building key skills like communication, teamwork, collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and several others.
In addition, we merge the elements of gaming and learning by integrating interactive, gamified experiences into our educational programs. Our approach leverages the engaging nature of video games to teach complex subjects, such as coding and cybersecurity, in a way that resonates with our audience. Through reinforcing education through gaming and competition or story-driven, RPG-style learning experiences, we immerse participants in real-world scenarios that require problem-solving, strategic thinking, and teamwork.
This innovative methodology not only makes learning enjoyable but also enhances retention and application of skills, preparing our learners for successful careers in tech and cybersecurity. By transforming education into an exciting adventure, we inspire and equip the next generation of tech-savvy professionals.
As digital media increasingly shapes modern childhood, understanding its cognitive effects is an ongoing area of research. However, we see several opportunities to enhance the skills of our youth by building on the activities they already enjoy!
Check out this article to read more about our gaming and technology revolution! Also, check out this article about our first championship middle school Fortnite team.