Gamez R gud for learnin', sez researcherz

The Chicago Tribune has written up a nice little survey of some of the research being done on the educational benefits of video games. The studies are still too early on to generate any real conclusions, but the anecdotal evidence is impressive, according to the article. Researchers are lauding the critical thinking skills engendered by simulation and role-playing games, and the ability of games to keep terminally bored students engaged with a subject. Even the socialization offered by talking about a game like Grand Theft Auto has educational value, according to the University of Wisconsin's Kurt Squire.