Computer game boosts maths scores

According to study carried out in Scottish schools, a daily dose of computer games can boost maths attainment. Learning and Teaching Scotland - the main organisation for the development of the curriculum - analysed the effect of a "brain training" game.

The study involved more than 600 pupils in 32 schools across Scotland using the Brain Training from Dr Kawashima game on the Nintendo DS every day. The study involved more than 600 pupils across the country. It also found improvements in pupils' concentration and behavior. Researchers found that while all groups had improved their scores, the group using the game had improved by a further 50%. A group of pupils played the game, which included reading tests, problem-solving exercises and memory puzzles, for 20 minutes at the start of their class for nine weeks. A control group continued their lessons in a more traditional manner. The study also found that it made no difference if the children had the game at home and noted no difference in ability between girls or boys.