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Dominican University of California

First Grade Students' Experience Using Web-Based Computer Games on Starfall.com to Improve Literacy Skills

Abstract

dc:description.abstract

<p>Technology is present in most of today’s US households in many forms, including computer games. There are few empirical studies available to help determine if time spent playing computer games helps in the cognitive development of children, specifically literacy skills.</p> <p>The constructivist theory formulated by Jean Piaget tells us we learn by doing and several more recent authors claim that cognitive development is enhanced by learners who are actively engaged, challenged, and motivated by the use of computer games.</p> <p>This study examines a group of first graders and their experience with web-based computer reading games as found on Starfall.com. The outcome of the study shows students are excited and motivated to learn to read, and can improve their ability to understand and use phonics by playing web-based computer games.</p>

Degree

thesis:*
Name thesis:degree_name
Master of Science
Level thesis:degree_level
Master's Thesis
Discipline thesis:degree_discipline
Education
Year
2009

Author and committee

dc:creator, dc:contributor.*
Author dc:creator
  • Halsey, Kristin L.

Subjects

dc:subject × 1

Identifiers

dc:identifier.*
OAI identifier oai:identifier
oai:scholar.dominican.edu:education-print-theses-1364

Chain of custody

source
Harvested from
Dominican University of California
Base URL
scholar.dominican.edu/do/oai/
Last updated
2026-07-24
Source record
OAI-PMH GetRecord
citation

Halsey, Kristin L.. First Grade Students' Experience Using Web-Based Computer Games on Starfall.com to Improve Literacy Skills. Master's Thesis thesis, 2009. https://scholar.dominican.edu/education-print-theses/365