RedOctane's Dance Video Game Supports Academic Success
29 June 2005 - 8:20PM
PR Newswire (US)
RedOctane's Dance Video Game Supports Academic Success In the
Groove Stimulates Learning Through Child Mentor Program REDMOND,
Ore., June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- RedOctane(R), a leading creator of
music video games and peripherals, announced today the results from
research that studied the effects of integrating the In The Groove
dance video game into third and fourth grade classes. The 5-month
pilot program study at Vern Patrick Elementary School in Redmond,
Oregon, showed that the use of In The Groove helped promote the
development of social skills, increased self-image, and fostered
teamwork. "Children are highly motivated to play video games and
infusing In The Groove as a teaching tool had a great impact on
overall learning," said Judy Shasek, M.S., Vern Patrick study
coordinator and fitness consultant. Student leaders known as
"Groove Masters" became mentors who taught their peers how to play
the game. Throughout the school day, time was scheduled for groups
of students to play the game together. Teachers, administrators,
and students were surprised by the positive results from this extra
physical activity. PILOT PROGRAM RESULTS: -- The absenteeism rate
dropped by more than 50%. -- Teachers reported that 85% of the
mentors demonstrated a growth in social skills. -- Teachers
reported that 94% of the students demonstrated an increase in
leadership skills and confidence, impacting student's self-esteem
and academic success. -- Testing showed that 4th graders using In
The Groove improved their mile run times by 13.8%. -- Students
reported more enthusiasm for sports, fitness and dance than before
the program began. To see the children from the Vern Patrick study
playing In The Groove please go to http://www.getupmove.com/
ADDITIONAL RESULTS: Heather Renz, one of the lead teachers in the
study, was selected as a Microsoft Innovative Technology Teacher
from the U.S. (for more info visit
http://www.generation-fit.com/microsoft.htm ) for her use of In The
Groove as a fitness and brain-training solution in the classroom.
Justin, who is challenged with both cerebral palsy and autism, was
very open to trying In The Groove. As a result of playing In The
Groove, Justin developed improved motor skills, and appreciated the
active participation with his classmates. Many students like
Justin, who had previously not enjoyed PE class, really liked
getting aerobic exercise through playing the game. RedOctane and
Vern Patrick researchers have used the pilot program results to
develop an educational model for future similar school programs. If
your school's interested in learning more or integrating a similar
program please contact Judy Shasek at . About RedOctane Based in
Sunnyvale, California, RedOctane(R) is a leading creator of music
video games and peripherals. For more than two years RedOctane has
been the top online retailer provider of dance games and unique,
high-quality dance accessories in the U.S. For additional
information on RedOctane please visit http://www.redoctane.com/.
DATASOURCE: RedOctane CONTACT: Tracie Snitker of Reverb
Communications, Inc., +1-209-586-1495, ext. 104, or , for RedOctane
Web site: http://www.redoctane.com/
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