Friday, 31 October 2008

Video Gaming Technology Can Enhance Learning

Video games are not just for fun; they can also aid in helping you acquire valuable training and skills.

Flight Simulator Software
One of the earliest examples is that of flight simulators. Mechanical methods of flight simulation have been in place almost as long the airplane itself. Clearly the importance of training in a safe environment was recognized early on.

However, the advent of computer-driven flight simulation allowed for a much more realistic learning experience. The modern version boasts realistic colors, including daytime and nighttime variations, and furthermore can easily track flight instruments.

One of the most popular flight simulation games is produced by Microsoft. It is also one of the oldest, and in fact it was produced for three years even before Windows was released to the market! As such, the flight simulator program is the oldest continuously running franchise that Microsoft has on the market, further testifying to the timeless nature of this particular application.

Typing Tutor Software
Another early use of the computer for education is typing tutor software. Computers are ideally suited for this task because the computer can easily track typing speed and errors. Not only that, the computer can also track which keys produce the most errors.

Since typing is one of the most important skills associated with using a computer, typing instruction is a valid use of computer education and will likely remain so for as long as we have computers.

Students can benefit by using the typing tutor every day, particularly while they are still learning how to type. Typing tutor software often employ the use of games so that the student does not even realize they are "learning".

This can allow for great progress in a short amount of time. The benefits of enhanced typing skill include: greater speed, greater accuracy, and reduced frustration while working on the computer. Greater accuracy means fewer mistakes and a lessened need to employ double-checking by others.

Language Instruction Software
Many students have reported excellent results from the use of computer software to learn a new language. This type of software is valuable due to the interactivity inherent in this technology. It allows for an "immersion" type of learning, in which one actually begins to think in the new language rather than simply learn how to translate from one language to another.

Language instruction programs will often employ the use of pictures to give a command. This method particulary benefits the visually-oriented reader and certainly aids in helping the student embrace the new language.

Language learning software will also give commands in the language being learned, so the student actually hears the language spoken correctly. This method is a clear advantage over instruction solely from books.

Whatever you need to learn, you can probably find a software program to help you learn it.

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