Study: Gambling games bring thrill, focus in classrooms

Computer gambling games in classrooms? Why not, says a University of Bristol professor.

Paul Howard-Jones, a professor of neuroscience and education, wants the majority of lessons, in all subjects, be taught using computer gambling games, which he believes promotes focus while also giving the students the same thrill as riding a rollercoaster, TES reported.

For his study, Howard-Jones had 24 postgraduate students for teams of three and start a game, in which they must correctly answer a question to gain points. Then, the students had to spin a “wheel of fortune,” which gave them a 50-50 chance of either doubling their points or losing all of them.

Using brain-imaging technology, Howard-Jones found that the brain area that indicates distraction and inattention was rarely active during the entirety of the game. On the other hand, the brain’s dopamine responses—associated with visceral responses like sex or good food—were kicking high due to the game’s level of risk and reward.