Why should methods matter? Promoting effective research examining digital gaming and cognitive development in middle-childhood

Session Type: Conversation Roundtable

Abstract

Middle childhood remains a privileged albeit understudied developmental period in studies examining the impact of digital game play on learning and cognition. Contributing to this privilege is the neural plasticity that characterizes this period whereby key cognitive abilities such as metacognition, cognitive flexibility, working memory, and problem-solving become more sophisticated (Zelazo & Carlson, 2012). This sophistication impacts academic performance and overall learning. Middle childhood also is marked by increasing digital game play. For example, 6- 8 year olds play digital games 60-90 minutes per day and 47% of 3rd - 8th grade teachers reported digital game use in their classrooms weekly (Common Sense Media, 2019). In those studies that have investigated digital game play and cognitive ability linkages in middle childhood, methodologies have varied markedly as have the cognitive and learning outcomes that are considered. Further, many of these studies include primarily WEIRD (White, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) and neurotypical samples. This situation compromises what we can learn about how digital game play may enhance cognitive ability and learning, especially in populations that might benefit most from their use. Our multidisciplinary (i.e. developmental and educational psychology, and integrative physiology) and multi-career level panel will engage the audience in discussion of how to advance our understanding of game play and cognitive ability linkages during middle childhood. Topical considerations will span methodologies, measurement tools, and sampling practices appropriate for diverse settings (e.g. lab, in the field) and populations.
Organizer: Fran Blumberg
Panelists: Ashley Ricker, Rachel Flynn, Erica Kleinknecht, & Bruce Homer

Sub Unit

• Technology, Media & Child Development

Moderator

• Fran C Blumberg, Fordham University

Panelists

• Ashley Ann Ricker, University of Colorado Boulder

• Rachel M Flynn, San Francisco State University

• Erica Kleinknecht, Pacific University

• Bruce D Homer, The Graduate Center, CUNY