Cause-Effect Essay by Ayu Ratna Pratiwi

The Effect of Video games on Scholastic Achievement

With the increasing number of video games, it has been suggested that video game use has an effect on performance in school.  The amount of time spent gaming can take away time spent doing homework or studying.  There have been a variety of studies done with mixed results.

Some studies have shown that use of violent video games can cause more aggressive behavior and acting out in class.  Other studies have shown that excessive use can lower the performance in students. The use of educational video games can have a positive effect on students with learning disabilities like dyslexia.  The video games can actually help improve their reading skills.

Some studies have shown that video game use affects younger students more than older ones by slowing their reading and writing skills.  The cause seemed to be that they spend more time playing games than reading or other educational activities.

Excessive use of violent video games can cause more aggressive behavior and a desensitizing to violence.  As with anything use in moderation seems to have little effect on grades or learning ability.  Parents should monitor video game use by children, especially younger ones, ensuring school work and studying is done before use of video games are allowed.

Studies of college students showed that video game use of freshman decreased as the school year progressed, most likely due to pressure to complete assignments forced less video game use.

In conclusion, while more studies are needed, it is safe to say that excessive use of video games that takes time away from homework or studying does have a negative effect on learning.  Also moderate use of educational video games can actually help students, especially those with learning disabilities.

Ayu Ratna Pratiwi – 1420302198