Can computer games improve the ability to study?

Computer-based games can have a beneficial effect on learning, according to ground-breaking new research from the University of Bristol. The brain-imaging study shows that - contrary to popular belief - technological game-playing can involve brain activity that positively supports learning. The research, with students at Bristol, is linked to a bigger classroom study which will involve 10,000 secondary school pupils across the UK - and for which participants are currently being recruited. It may also provide a new perspective on concerns that some children spend too much time playing computer games - including those highlighted in an Action for Children survey of parents earlier this week. Led by Professor Paul Howard-Jones , educational neuroscientist and presenter of Channel 4's series The Secret Life Of 4, 5 and 6 Year Olds, the Bristol University study and associated classroom project are being launched at the Association for Science Education annual conference on Friday January 8. The research team will show for the first time how the 'gamification' of learning can reduce the activity of a particular brain network which is responsible for mind wandering. When students tried to study by simply reading notes and looking at example questions, this Default Mode Network was strongly activated.