1) How has watching these two Ted Talks changed
your perspective on the roles of games?
Watching
the TED video presentations did change my perspective on the role that games
can play and the role that games will have in the future. The evidence that
Gabe Zichermann presented surprised me. The fact that there is actual proof
that video games help to increase intelligence, specifically fluid thinking and
problem solving ability was something that I was not aware of. Some of the
examples that were given about how video game experience translates to real
were interesting. For example, one individual indicated that most of his
driving skills came form real life. Additionally, the information about the
increase in ability of the grade three class using hand-held games after such a
short time was notable. I didn’t realize just how addictive video games could
be for some people. It was shocking to hear someone admit that he could no
longer tell the difference between what was a game and what was reality.
2) Based on the video's, how do you see games
"changing the world"?
Games are
going to change the world. Games will become part of the education process and
will be used to teach people all types of things, not just traditional academic
subjects. I can see games becoming standard for teaching all different types of
skills. The multi-player aspect of gaming will likely be applied to
collaboration in the business world. Because companies are doing business
globally the idea that people across the world can work on something together
so simply is ideal. Also, I see games beginning to involve real life
characteristics and actions. For example, I can see job applicants having to
compete for positions using gaming techniques. This would also give insight to
how they work alone and how they work as a team. Games will alter the world on
every level.
3) What concerns or doubts do you have about
games becoming a dominant cultural force?
One concern
that I have is that if games become a large part of education and an
individual’s learning style is not compatible with a particular format, it may
become more difficult for some people to learn. Virtual life may also begin to
compete with actual life in an unhealthy way. Games have started to incorporate
more physical elements into their format, but this needs to continue so that
people do not become obese and sedentary. Wealthier countries that have access
to greater technology and development will prosper at a greater rate and
continue to have dominance, just as they do today.
