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Norwegian nursing students will be given a specially developed computer game to aid in passing a critical exam. The project aims to improve learning through visual and fun methods, addressing students' struggles with mathematics and science.

Computer games can teach schools some lessons

Research suggests that video games can optimize learning by providing information in a timely manner and creating an environment of 'pleasantly frustrating' challenges. This approach is known as 'situated learning,' where students are immersed in real-world problems to develop deep understanding and critical thinking skills.

New algorithm to improve video game quality

Morgan McGuire and Dr. David Luebke developed a new method for computerized lighting and light sources that can improve video game graphics to film-like quality in faster time. The algorithm reverses the process of producing light effects, pulling it onto the world and pushing it into the image, resulting in a faster processing speed.

Teaching computer games

Researchers from Oklahoma State University outline a teaching method that uses rapid computer game creation to bridge the digital divide. This approach circumvents traditional barriers to computing, such as prior knowledge of programming, and fosters critical and creative thinking skills.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Social and Humanistic Computing·DateJan 21, 2010

Of girls and geeks: Environment may be why women don't like computer science

Research suggests that environment plays a significant role in women's interest in computer science, with stereotypical settings evoking a masculine image. Women tend to prefer non-stereotypical environments, such as those without Star Trek posters or junk food, and feel less of a sense of belonging in stereotypical settings.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 14, 2009

Child's play may revolutionize video gaming, police work

A study using virtual reality and real-world hide-and-seek found that people tend to look closer to their starting location when searching for objects. When hiding objects, they disperse them over a wider area. This research could lead to more realistic game environments and advanced search-enhancing tools for law enforcement.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalLearning and Motivation·DateAug 31, 2009

Active video games a good alternative for kids

Researchers found that active video games can burn calories comparable to moderate-intensity walking, making them a safe and valuable means of promoting energy expenditure in children. The study, published in Pediatrics, suggests that substituting screen time with physically active games can help reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 16, 2009

Playing video games for better, not worse

Researchers conducted three studies across different countries, age groups, and approaches, finding a strong correlation between playing prosocial games and increased helpful behavior. The studies suggest an upward spiral of prosocial gaming leading to improved prosocial behavior.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 17, 2009

Violent video games can improve vision

A Tel Aviv University study found that playing violent video games can enhance the ability of teenagers to discriminate between subtle contrasts in color or shades of gray. After playing 50 hours of violent action games, players showed a significant improvement in contrast sensitivity, with some even experiencing up to 58% enhancement.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 7, 2009

Action video games improve vision

Research from the University of Rochester found that action video games can improve contrast sensitivity by 58% by training the brain to process visual information more efficiently. This finding suggests that gaming may not be harmful for vision and could potentially complement eye-correction techniques.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 29, 2009

Violent computer games have role in fire safety

Researchers at Durham University found that commercial violent computer games can be used to build virtual worlds for training in fire evacuation procedures. The study showed that using game code from First Person Shooter games is quicker and more efficient than traditional virtual reality toolkits.

SourceDurham University·JournalFire Safety Journal·DateFeb 3, 2009

Players love the game not the gore

A new study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that violent content does not increase enjoyment in video games. Instead, challenges and a sense of autonomy are key drivers of player engagement. For most players, gore actually detracts from the game's 'fun factor'.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJan 16, 2009

From Xbox to T-cells: Michigan Tech researchers borrow video game technology to model human biology

A team of Michigan Tech researchers is harnessing video game technology to model complex biological systems, such as the human immune response to tuberculosis. Using GPUs, they have created a powerful new tool for medical research, allowing for faster and more efficient simulations of diseases like sepsis.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Computing and Information Science in Engineering·DateSep 16, 2008

Video games can make us creative if spark is right

Researchers discovered that video games can boost creativity when players are highly energized and in a positive mood. Conversely, low arousal and negative emotions lead to the highest levels of creativity. The study suggests harnessing emotional elements in games to spark creative thought and problem-solving skills.

Video games and violence

A recent study by Patrick Kierkegaard suggests that there is limited scientific evidence linking video games to real-world aggression. In fact, research shows that violent video games have not led to an increase in violence but rather may have reduced it. The study's findings contradict previous work on the topic and highlight the need...

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Liability and Scientific Enquiry·DateMay 14, 2008

For nutrition info, moms like the Web best

A new study found that low-income mothers prefer receiving nutrition information on the web rather than through a video game or printed pamphlet. The study suggests that websites are a smart strategy for certain groups, particularly in increasing nutrition literacy.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJan 10, 2008

Study examines video game play among adolescents

A study of 1,491 teens aged 10-19 found that video game players spent less time on reading and homework compared to non-gamers. However, gaming habits did not affect social interactions or parent-child relationships, with girls spending more quality time with parents when playing games.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJul 2, 2007

Action video games sharpen vision 20 percent

Researchers at the University of Rochester found that playing action video games for 30 hours per week improved spatial resolution and visual acuity. The study showed significant improvements in identifying letters presented in clutter, even beyond the part of the visual field where players typically engage with the game.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 6, 2007