Game based Learning with Nintendo DS

Is the Nintendo DS games console beneficial to learning in the classroom?
Our very own Dr David Miller has researched this idea for LTScotland. See here
He is also quoted in a Psychology paper from Montana, USA. See here
His and partner Derek Robertson discovered that there was significant gain in both areas (controlled and experimental groups). In terms of mathematics the research showed "that the less competent children tended to improve more than the more able children" in terms of written  maths assessment. The game they used was Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training.
On e-learning Derek Robertson is listed as one of their 'brillian blogs'.
If you are interested in finding out more here is a link to the Consolarium blog on LTS.
Here is a report on how Nintendo DS can support a learner diagnosed with autism.


Advantages I have found of DS as a whole:
Class very quiet- all on task
Brain training has been proven to increase memory
Hand/eye co-ordination being practiced



Disadvantages I have found of DS as a whole:
Takes a while to get into games if never played before
Can you save 30 games?
Solo working most of time
If you don't have hand, finger dexterity can you work the stylus?
Games and Stylus very small - could be easily lost.

Below is a quick review of four games I have personally tested.


Professor Layton and the Curious Village:
Here is a walk through of the game also on blogger.
Language used by professor complicated. This could be positive or negative.
Great for problem solving
Quite a bit of reading involved. This game is recommended for all age ranges but I think it would best suit primary 5 upwards(second level CfE).



Word Academy
Language based game.
Suitable for Primary 4-6
Good for forming letters. Possibly good for dyslexia.
It says it coaches you in the English language. I tried to test the spelling using the words behaviour, travelling and recognise, but it did not recognise these words in English or American?
You would need to find this out before giving it to pupils.


Eoin Colfer Artemis Fowl

This game was developed from a book. It contains 6 interactive books by Eoin Colfer.
This resource is fantastic. It allows children to read the book and click on different links. Therefore if a child does not understand a word they can click on it to find more information.
This resource would be good for reluctant readers.
There is also collectible images throughout the book which adds the game/competition element to it.



Gardening Mama

This game uses hand control of the stylus in different ways.
I cannot see much learning from this game. I think it is basically a repetitive addictive game. I think children would like to play it but may not gain much from it. Others may disagree and say that it provides information about growing plants and children can learn about horticulture through it. I feel that the best was to learn about this medium is to experience it. i.e. to go out and grow plants in real life.

Conclusion

I think the nintendo ds can be an effective learning tool in class however the choice of game should be considered. This also should not be used as a reward or add on activity at the end of a lesson or in golden time. Curriculum for Excellence says that ICT should be used to enhance lessons and should be integrated throughout the lesson. If I wanted to develop great lessons with ICT I should think how I can include the technology so that my lessons are meaningful and relevant.