University of Twente Student Theses
Computer game based multimedia training and cognitive flexibility
Sliwinski, J. (2011) Computer game based multimedia training and cognitive flexibility.
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| Abstract: | The current study investigated the utility of a computer game based multimedia training for fostering cognitive flexibility. Prior studies have shown a transfer of fast decision-making skills from the virtual environment of a computer game into the real world. This study aimed to tie in on examining the effectivity of game based learning, with regard to the skill of conscious decision making, called cognitive flexibility, which comprises an individual’s awareness of communication alternatives, willingness to adapt to novel situations, and the self-efficacy in doing so. Nine managers and a mixed sample of twenty students and young employees participated in an experiment comprising of either one hour of playing a well chosen computer game or watching it, which served as control condition. The dependent variables were, besides cognitive flexibility, presence, enjoyment, and retention. The training did not prove to be effective in increasing the participants’ cognitive flexibility, though its impact was identified of being highly influenced by prior game experience, which may facilitate the experience of presence and enhance the information processing of game content. A computer game based multimedia training as used in this study showed to have the potential of being beneficial in the context of developing the ability of cognitive flexibility; however, it is not suitable for everyone so that training material and participants have to be matched with great care. Furthermore, the interest and motivation has to be considered, because willing gamers are more easily transferred in a state of enjoyment and presence, and thus have greater chances to profit from the training. In addition to that, phases of reflection might be considered to be included in training, to facilitate and control the learning process. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Clients: | Research Center for Digital Games |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/61024 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
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