ESA Head Advocates Games For Education To House Committee

Entertainment Software Association CEO Michael D. Gallagher testified to a House of Representatives committee this week to advocate the growing use of video games in the classroom. Gallagher's testimony was delivered Tuesday to the House's Committee on Science, Space, and Technology as part of a hearing titled "STEM in Action: Inspiring the Science and Engineering Workforce of Tomorrow," which examined ways to improve science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and career encouragement. "With the power to improve critical thinking and problem solving skills, games are next-generation learning tools that have the potential to transform the educational experiences of children across the country," Gallagher told the Representatives. "We encourage educators and policy makers to take steps now to incorporate these resources into classrooms and ensure that our young people are equipped for success in emerging STEM careers." When used as teaching devices, games can, according to the ESA, "help develop life skills and reinforce positive habits." A full transcript of Gallagher's testimony, as well as an archived video of Tuesday's hearing, is available at the Committee's website.