The intersection of video games and education
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the intersection of video games and education. It seems like these are two polar opposites in today’s culture. Video games are becoming so sophisticated and engaging (so much so that the video game industry generates more money than the film industry). On the other hand, traditional education is unbelievably stagnant. So you take a game like Trauma Center for the Nintendo Wii.
Could someone actually learn medicine or surgery through a game like Trauma Center. Today the answer is no. Tomorrow the answer will be yes. Not sure how long that will take but it will happen. There are dozens of examples of this taking place today. Software like Tactical Iraqi which helps soldiers prepare more effectively for missions.
Right now you can’t learn to play guitar simply by playing Guitar Hero. In the not-too-distant future you’re going to be able to.
How frickin’ cool will that be?
Four videos of the future
It’s a beautiful, quiet, sunny Sunday afternoon here in Santa Monica and I thought I’d post four videos that inspire me and give you a glimpse into the future. In part, the future that we’re looking forward to helping to create. Here ya go:
#1 - This video more than anything else I’ve seen shows what I envision Education Revolution being able to empower someday. I get goosebumps every time I watch it.
#2 - A friend recently sent this to me…I totally love it. A couple of the slides in particular rocked my world. Crazy how fast this world is changing…
#3 - I saw Will Wright demo Spore at South Southwest a couple of weeks ago. AMAZING. I look at the sophistication and innovation behind something like Spore and then I compare it to the utter lack of innovation in our educational systems. It’s appalling and encouraging at the same time. I’m excited to bring the level of intensity to education that Will has brought to video game world.
#4 - Finally, one of my favorite videos ever. Most of you have probably seen this one before. It’s not so much the future but rather a tribute to the people of the past who have pushed things forward. It’s with that same spirit that we move forward. At a breakfast meeting with a successful entrepreneur a couple of weeks ago he looked at me and said “Dude, you’re crazy. I can’t see how what you’re describing will ever work.” I took it as the highest compliment.
Here’s to the crazy one…
Soooo excited to be able to share more with you about what we’re doing. Stay tune!
