The Benefits of Video Game Design for Students

By Mehdi Mousavi
Computer Science Teacher
GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail

There is no denying that video games have become a ubiquitous part of modern childhood. While there are certainly benefits to playing video games, such as improving problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination, it is important that children do not rely solely on video games as a source of entertainment and learning. Instead, children should learn how to design and create them. Video game design is a highly creative and dynamic field that has the potential to provide numerous benefits to children who are taught the skills and principles of this discipline. 

First and foremost, learning how to design and create video games allows young people to express themselves creatively and develop their problem-solving skills. Video game design requires children to think outside the box and come up with unique and innovative ideas for their games. It also requires them to solve problems and troubleshoot technical issues that may arise during the development process. These skills can help children develop their creative thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are essential in many areas of life.

In addition, learning how to create and design games can also help young people develop important technical skills, such as programming and coding. Teaching children video game design can introduce them to the fundamentals of computer programming. This can help them develop an understanding of how computers work and give them a foundation in coding, which can be useful in a wide range of careers. These skills are in high demand in the job market and can lead to lucrative career opportunities in the tech industry.

Video game design is often a team-based activity, requiring children to work together and collaborate to achieve a common goal. This can help children develop teamwork and collaboration skills, which are important for success in school and in the workplace. 

This will also help in improving communication skills in children. When designing a video game, children need to be able to clearly articulate their ideas and communicate effectively with others. This can help them improve their communication skills and become more confident in expressing themselves. Furthermore, video games design encourages critical thinking as it requires children to think critically about the gameplay mechanics and user experience of their games. This can help them develop their critical thinking skills and become more analytical and logical in their thinking.

Creating a video game from scratch can be a challenging and rewarding experience for children. As they see their ideas come to life and their games take shape, they may feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. This can help boost their confidence and self-esteem. Video game design can be a complex and time-consuming process, and children may encounter obstacles and setbacks along the way. Teaching children video game design can help them learn to persevere and stay motivated in the face of challenges, building important qualities such as persistence and resilience. Many video games involve art and design elements, such as character design and level layout. Teaching children video game design can help them develop their artistic skills and explore their creative potential.

As the video game industry continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for skilled game designers and developers. Teaching children video game design can open up a range of career opportunities for them in this field. Finally, teaching children video game design can be an enjoyable and engaging activity for them. Many children are naturally interested in video games, and learning how to design and create their own games can be a thrilling and rewarding hobby.

In conclusion, there are many benefits to young people learning how to design and create video games they enjoy. It allows them to express themselves creatively, develop important technical skills, and find a sense of purpose and belonging. Encouraging young people to learn how to design and create video games can have a positive impact on their personal and professional.

Arabic Version on MENA Tech Website: https://bit.ly/3iSH3Sz