Integrating Video Games into the Elementary School Classroom

Abstract

Video games are prominent in contemporary Ontario student cultures in that 85% of Ontario students play outside the classroom. As such, video games have the potential to be an instructional tool that can vastly increase student engagement through “edutainment” which is the combination of education and entertainment. Here, I report local teacher experiences on their integration of video games into their elementary school classroom. The participants reported a) the importance of distinguishing student, gaming and school cultures, b) the importance of moderation and boundaries for students, c) the overall positive reception to the use of video games by students, and d) the importance of teachers having perseverance. Based on these findings, I also make recommendations on multiple levels of the education system including the need for more professional development, more funding for technology, parent engagement, and transparent communication between students, parents and teachers.