Electronic games: Children controlling the cognitive environment

Adults have long recognized that games are interesting to both children and adults. However, games are generally relegated by adults to play time. Playing games interferes with work. Games are frequently seen as rewards for finishing work. The present article argues that electronic games contain features that can enhance the learning environment. That is, learning can take place whileplaying games. The argument continues that games do not have to be designed with a particular learning objective in mind. Rather, games that are self selected by children, by their very nature, will provide opportunities for complex learning.