Reengaging Boys: How Designed Learning Spaces Teach Boys 21st-Century Skills

• In Event: Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Examining Students' Perceptions and Attitudes Regarding Teaching and Learning Environments

Abstract

Boys continue to struggle in traditional schools when compared to their girl counterparts. Traditional schools reject social practices that boys normally participate in. This friction leads to feelings of alienation and disengagement. Video game environments are not only places that boys use to socialize with other boy peers, but also can help develop valuable 21st Century skills. Gaming spaces are designed learning spaces (Squire, 2006). These interest driven environments encourage boys to pursue and to obtain expertise. This phenomenological study describes what the gaming experience means for boys through their own voices. Our findings suggest that boys can develop social relationships, pursue mastery and develop grit through the use of commercial video games.

Authors

• Jason A Engerman, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park

• Robert Hein, The Pennsylvania State University

• Rebecca Yvonne Bayeck, The Pennsylvania State University

• Shulong Yan, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park

• Ali A. Carr-Chellman, The Pennsylvania State University