Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Combining Computer Game-Based Behavioural Experiments With High-Density EEG and Infrared Gaze Tracking
Published on: December 16, 2010
Media and human capital development: Can video game playing make you smarter?
1Centre for Health Economics, Monash Business School, Monash University.
Abstract:
According to the literature, video game playing can improve such cognitive skills as problem solving, abstract reasoning, and spatial logic. I test this hypothesis using The Child Development Supplement to the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. The endogeneity of video game playing is addressed by using panel data methods and controlling for an extensive list of child and family characteristics. To address the measurement error in video game playing, I instrument children's weekday time use with their weekend time use. After taking into account the endogeneity and measurement error, video game playing is found to positively affect children's problem solving ability. The effect of video game playing on problem solving ability is comparable to the effect of educational activities.
Related Concept Videos
Social Foundations of Self I: Play and Game
Social Scripts
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Purposive Learning
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...

