TED Talks

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.