BBC: virtual worlds good for kids

By Oli Welsh Published 27 May, 2008

Research finds they teach social skills.

A research study commissioned by the BBC has concluded that online virtual worlds can be a useful tool in the development of young children.

The research used a world called Adventure Rock, developed for the BBC by Belgium's Larian, and aimed at 6-12 year olds.

After observing the ways children used the world and seeking their feedback, the University of Westminster researchers said that online worlds were useful "rehearsal spaces" where children could try out behaviours and learn social skills. They could do so free of the consequences and difficulties that would follow in the real world.

"Virtual worlds can be a powerful, engaging and interactive alternative to more passive media," said Professor David Gauntlett.

Beneficial or not, kids' virtual worlds are big business; last year, Disney bought Club Penguin for USD 700 million. Although most are largely social spaces, the first full-blown massively multiplayer games aimed specifically at children are now in development: Sony Online Entertainment's Free Realmscx and NetDevil's LEGO Universe.

Picture of Oli.

About Oli Welsh

Oli is Eurogamer's acting deputy editor and reviews editor and likes to take things one word at a time. He is among the best dressed people in South London.

Read more articles from Oli by visiting the Oli Welsh archive page.

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