Using games to learn science: student perceptions of Elementary Education

Abstract

Among the various ICTs currentlyused, the use of games has been an interesting possibility, since it can give new meanings to the use of the computer and generate learning. This article is the result of a qualitative research and involves the investigation of the potentialities of the use of three games in the teaching-learning process of the content systems of the human body, in the perceptions of a teacher and seventh grade elementary students. We collecteddatathrough observation, questionnaires, individual interviews and focus groupinterviews. For students, the use of games in science education helps motivation, easesunderstanding of the contents, and is fun, dynamicand reduces class indiscipline. It is important to consider the positive contributions of these games to learning science, but also to investigate possible adverse effects, such as anxiety and nervousness in the players.