PLJ12.
Gamer Vs. Non-Gamer (Me)
When I read the first article... the first thought that came to mind was, "Really? The world has actually given credibility to those nerds who sit all day avoiding reality?" But after really looking into I guess I have to give those nerds a little bit more credit. Ok... Alot more credit. My strong opinion was based on my own (very limited might I add) experience with video games. I can list, very shortly, the video games I have routinely played.

1. SuperMario Brothers/ Duck Hunt.
2. RollerCoaster Tycoon.
3. GuitarHero.
4. Frogger.
5. Dance Dance Revolution.
6. Wii Tennis and Bowling.

Oh and 7. Snake.

After looking at that list, the fact that I came up with that amount even amazes me. I guess I'm just more of an active person and I'll like to be right there in the action without having to worry about any thumb bobbles or tragic finger slips on my controller. But after reassessing, I totally see how these extremely intricate interactive games could create a strong leader and good manager. My ignorance just stemmed from my limited gamer knowledge of only child, mostly rhythem games. World of Warcraft really is like an alternative reality with its own politics and conflicts. Clearly not just anyone can be a master of this game... I for one would'nt have a clue where to even start. The fact that the game requires interaction and unity to provide a strong team instantly transforms the principles of my coach potato theory into one that provides all the means necessary to mold someone into a great employee.
Even the military is having fun with games? Why not! Although sternly dubbed "Serious Games", I think that using games like Halo is a fun way to teach soldiers basic combat technique without taking big risks. It provides tools that allow soldiers to become familiar with equipment and teaches them how to actively survey their surroundings. I feel like this is a great way to teach soldiers how to adapt, be aware, and react quickly.
And how can we forget the infamous Oregon Trail game? Or even Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? I feel like these games were most engaging to me in terms of civic learning opportunities. Carmen Sandiego always had me traveling around the world learning about other countries governments and differences in cultures. The Oregon Trail always made me with that the president at that time couldn't help find a cure for typhoid fever. Darn. Regardless, I don't think that provoking civil activism in teens with video games would be too effective. At least not with any of the games I'm familiar with... so I could be very mistaken. I don't really know enough about alternative video games out there that could inspire civil activism. But with the ultimate success of other video games, I think the potential for civil activism will be reached just a short amount of time.