Impact of Computer Based Educational Games on Cognitive Performance Of School Children in Lahore, Pakistan

Dr. Anjum Zia; Shafaq Chaudhry; Iram Naz

Dr. Anjum Zia Associate Professor, Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
Shafaq Chaudhry Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
Iram Naz Department of Mass Communication, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore

Keywords: Computer-based educational games, Public and Private Schools, Causal Comparative, Experimental method, Cognitive development.

Abstract

This study examines the impact of computer based educational games on cognitive performance of school children in Lahore, Pakistan. It focuses on the accessibility, positive and negative characteristics and usage as well as level of adaptability of computer-based educational games among school going children. Theoretical grounds of the study was supported by two theories i.e. uses and gratification and theory of cognitive development. The study applied two research methods one was experimental and other was causal comparative method. Universe of the study was Lahore and students of 4 and 5 grades from selected public and private schools of Lahore were the Population. Stratified sampling technique was used to identify schools and respondents of the study. The suggested hypotheses were statistically tested through Chi-square and ANOVA. The findings confirm that private school students have more facilities of computers at school than public schools but surprisingly none of them were using computer as a source of teaching and learning. Moreover majority respondents were agreed that the process of learning perk up with educational games and improves the understanding of different concepts. The study also suggested some of the recommendations for the field and future researchers.