Representatividade da ginástica artística feminina paulista no cenário brasileiro (2011-2014)

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Practising Arithmetic Using Educational Video Games with an Interpersonal Computer

Studies show the positive effects that video games can have on student performance and attitude towards learning. In the past few years, strategies have been generated to optimize the use of technological resources with the aim of facilitating widespread adoption of technology in the classroom. Given its low acquisition and maintenance costs, the interpersonal computer allows individual interaction and simultaneous learning with large groups of students. The purpose of this work was to compare arithmetical knowledge acquired by third-grade students through the use of game-based activities and non-game-based activities using an interpersonal computer, with knowledge acquired through the use of traditional paper-and-pencil activities, and to analyze their impact in various socio-cultural contexts. To do this, a quasi-experimental study was conducted with 271 students in three different countries (Brazil, Chile, and Costa Rica), in both rural and urban schools. A set of educational games for practising arithmetic was developed and tested in six schools within these three countries. Results show that there were no significant differences (ANCOVA) in the learning acquired from game-based vs. non-game-based activities. However, both showed a significant difference when compared with the traditional method. Additionally, both groups using the interpersonal computer showed higher levels of student interest than the traditional method group, and these technological methods were seen to be especially effective in increasing learning among weaker students.

Games independentes: plataformas de inovação das novas mídias no contexto da economia criativa

Creative spaces need freedom. Any productions, especially with artistic content, need space to mistakes, that is, for an attempt away from the standard. The independent production environment is recognized in different artistic sectors as a space for innovation, to be free of the serial production logic. The major innovations in the international scenario of games came from the independent productions. Great classics revolutionized the aesthetics and functionality of this new media. This project aims to analyze the productive chains of Brazilian independent games, starting with a regional analysis. The goal is to observe the factors responsible for the innovation that these games can offer, the management aspects of creative processes, articulation of innovative agents and resources mobilized. Brazil currently has the fourth largest gaming market in the world with expectation of strong growth for years to come, but arises in the international market as a consumer. Given this regional demand is necessary to study the tools of production, even to help fill that need. Not only the production of games should be thought, the media coverage is also another important factor, in view of the economic importance of this segment. Understanding the mechanisms of innovation in the gaming universe, its impact on the formation of public and coverage of specialized journalism in this new media are possible outcomes of future studies and research that scientific research can contribute