The use of computer games as educational tools

I was recently asked to contribute to the debate about the use of computer games as educational tools. It didn't take me to long to decide what my position would be. Especially since I come from the first generation of video and computer gaming. When thinking about the question I can't help but remember my first memory of gaming. I remember playing pong, and then I remember my aunt getting a Atari. I would sit there and play "Pitfall" or "pac-man" for hours!! I thought it was the greatest thing ever. Plus, it was difficult. It was a challenge. I wanted so bad to get to the next level that I would sacrifice a gorgeous day outside to achieve next level bliss. I remember my Dad hating it. He just didn't understand the infatuation, yet he still didn't know how to work the VCR, and had to ask me to turn it on every time he wanted to watch a movie. The whole time not realizing that the gaming was making me more comfortable with how to use technology.
I find my old recollections of my memories to be much like how some teachers feel about gaming in school, versus how the students feel about gaming. Teachers are often afraid that the students are just having fun or not really getting anything from what they are doing. A waste of time and brain power. Meanwhile.....The students are counting the minutes till they can get back home and play the latest version of Madden football on their Playstation 3. We are living in a time where it would be foolish for us to ignore the effects that gaming can have on our students learning.
If anything one of gaming's greatest qualities is grabbing the students attention. Believe me teachers, that 1991 VHS movie you still have of the planets......it's not going to do the trick. We have to take student interest in gaming seriously and figure out ways to incorporate it into some of our problem based learning activities. If there is anything I've learned about students it's they are only going to pay attention to you if they find you or something about you interesting. Gaming is a great way to tap into our students interest and to discuss problems and solutions.


Some resources on the subject:

http://www.futureofeducation.com/forum/topics/computer-games-as-educational

http://www.articlesbase.com/computer-games-articles/educational-computer-games-as-effective-learning-tools-904236.html

http://seayj.people.cofc.edu/cb/simgames.html?referrer=webcluster&