Study: Brain Trainer for Nintendo DS Raises Test Scores

London’s Daily Telegraph reports a study of 600 students in 32 schools across Britain led by Learning and Teaching Scotland found test scores increased after playing “Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training” each day for nine weeks. The students were ages nine and ten, and played “a 20-minute problem-solving session” on the game each day. Scores increased on the post-test for all students, but up to 50% more for the experimental group. The experimental group also had higher attendance, better behavior, and finished the test quicker. Gains were equal among boys and girls. Finally, whether children had a Nintendo DS at home or not did not affect their scores. Here are the key quotes:

Derek Robertson, LTS’s national adviser for emerging technologies and learning, said: “It shows teachers needn’t be afraid to use technology in the classroom.”

Lorna Neilson, a teacher at Hillhead Primary School in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, took part in the study.

She said the game had now become part of her daily classroom routine.

She said: “It’s had a really positive effect. The children settle much more quickly, they concentrate better and are more motivated.

“I have a Nintendo DS at home and I was already a fan, but it’s been a great tool in the classroom. I think it’s something we should see used in more schools.”

References:
Irvine, C. (2008, September 26). Playing Nintendo’s Brain Trainer ‘can improve childrens’ maths skills.’ Daily Telegraph. [Online.] Retrieved September 29, 2008 from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/3084265/
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