Effects of Computer Game on Children's Spatial Skills and Short-term Memory Ability

컴퓨터 게임이 아동의 공간기술과 단기기억에 미치는 효과

This study investigated children's spatial skills and short term memory ability based on their practice with computer games. The 40 four-year-old and 40 six-year-old subjects were divided by experimental and control groups. Spatial skills of children were assessed by visual speed, mental rotation, and spatial visualization tasks. Short term memory was measured with a digit span task. Results showed that computer game practice enhanced children's memory ability and spatial skills. Even 4-year-olds performed better on mental rotation and spatial visualization tasks after practice. The treatment effect was significant for visual speed of 6-year-olds, short term memory ability and mental rotation of 4-year-olds, and spatial visualization of both 4- and 6-year-olds.