Esports are usually either associated with the professional gaming field or leisure activities. It has become an exponentially growing phenomenon among the youth across the globe, with the industry worth more than a billion dollars. With this general trend, institutions are looking into its potential advantages in the field of education.
Some colleges in the US have started to offer scholarships tailored towards competitive student players. This is a similar setup with varsity teams such as basketball and soccer. Esports avoid some of the problems encountered in physical sports. It is accessible to students from a wider range of physical capabilities. Fewer resources are needed, such as venues and logistical needs. The risks of physical injury are significantly lower in comparison to physical sports.
However, its links to a more effective learning culture have surfaced in recent studies. With everyone leaning on online classes recently, esports can develop some of the competencies required.
Inclusion and Student Participation
Esports is starting to break the boundaries of athletic culture. Anyone is allowed to play regardless of physical limitations, gender, and even race. Everyone is on the same playing field, with only gaming skills put to the test. It encourages more students to engage in school-regulated gaming spaces, knowing that their skills are seen and taken seriously. Esports is an optimal activity for remote learning, which does not call for physical meetings.
Enhanced Brain Function
With regular practice, esports can help enhance both short and long-term memory. A study by the University of California discovered that games stimulate creativity, focus, and visual memory. They require imagination and retaining information to win or achieve a goal. This is helpful, whether you’re studying for school or an aptitude exam. My GRE Exam Preparation offers other resources that can help with your study.
Strategic and Critical Thinking
Many games require strategy and problem-solving skills. Gamers usually do not succeed in the first few tries, encouraging them to think of alternative strategies to achieve a goal. They assess their own and their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses. This process allows them to look at problems from different angles and come up with solutions faster.
Improved Multitasking Skills and Time Management
During a play, many things are happening all at once. And you have to be wary of all these aspects of the game. For instance, players find items while fending off opponents in a play. This process develops better and faster responses alongside multitasking skills. It also allows players to be more organized and have an effective time management scheme.
Teamwork and Social Interaction
With everyone physically distanced, esports become grounds for interaction and relationship building for students. It allows them to connect with others through a fun and safe activity. Esports in itself also develops social skills and teamwork. Some games require individuals to play in a team which teaches the importance of collaboration and sportsmanship. They can take on several roles and learn different things, such as managing a team if you’re the leader.
Medium for other Academic Topics
Game-based learning can also be used in other subject areas, especially complex topics. This approach can help better introduce certain concepts and allow students to have fun while doing so. For instance, a role-playing game that incorporates historical themes can help in retaining facts and understanding motivations.
Career Building and Opportunities
As mentioned earlier, esports can be a gateway to many opportunities. The industry offers different career paths apart from being a professional gamer, such as marketing and game development. Your gaming skills can even land you a scholarship for college. Almost 100 colleges all over the US are a part of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE). And a college degree can be your ticket to success. Learn more about the benefits of higher education in this article.
This is a paid guest post.