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Childhood in the digital age
Childhood in the digital age

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3.1.4 Multitasking as a new way of learning

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Figure 4 Perhaps video games can make us more alert and improve learning.

Multitasking may not always be detrimental to learning. Some scientific studies (Cardoso-Leite and Bavelier, 2014; Granic, Lobel and Engels, 2014) have also shown positive effects of multitasking.

In video games, for example, children need to focus on several things at any one time and learn simply by trying things out and seeing what works and what doesn’t. Many video games rely on this type of trial-and-error learning, which offers regular rewards and reinforcements that improve learning. Researchers have found that playing video games can be beneficial as they can promote divided attention skills, a sound foundation for multitasking. Playing games can even help promote alertness, quick reactions and brain development.