© 2024, Instituto de Estudios Superiores de Investigación y Postgrado, Venezuela
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Edni Rosalba Belisario and Sandra Milena Hincapié Bernal
Finally, according to the arguments presented, it is important to emphasize that educational
games promote cognitive and social development in the educational process, as noted by Be-
tancourt-Zambrano et al. (2020). These games, when properly designed, offer a platform to
teach young people to analyze information, formulate relevant questions, and make informed
decisions, also facilitating the acquisition of important social skills such as collaboration, com-
munication, and teamwork.
Educational Games and the Development of Social Skills
Educational games are a key tool in the development of social skills in children and young peo-
ple, providing an interactive and engaging platform for learning and practicing essential life
skills. Through play, participants can experience simulated situations that reflect real social cha-
llenges and contexts, allowing them to develop and strengthen a variety of social skills in a prac-
tical and meaningful way.
Firstly, educational games often require players to communicate with each other to achieve
common goals, exchange information, or negotiate roles and responsibilities. This process pro-
motes the development of verbal and non-verbal communication skills, including active liste-
ning, clear expression of ideas, and proper interpretation of others' messages.
Secondly, many games are designed to be played in groups, encouraging participants to co-
llaborate and work together towards a shared goal. This experience teaches the importance of
teamwork, including task delegation, mutual trust, peer support, and constructive conflict ma-
nagement.
Thirdly, by interacting in playful environments, players are exposed to different perspectives and
needs, which can foster empathy and interpersonal understanding. Games that simulate social
situations or require participants to take on specific roles can help children and young people
empathize with others and develop a greater sensitivity to others' emotions and viewpoints.
Fourthly, educational games can also serve as a testing ground for conflict resolution strategies.
The inherent challenges in the game and interaction with other players can generate conflicts
that require negotiated solutions, teaching participants to effectively resolve disagreements,
compromise, and find solutions that benefit all parties involved.
Fifthly, during the course of a game, children and young people face critical decisions that can
influence the outcome of the game for themselves and their team. These situations promote
the development of decision-making skills and can foster leadership qualities, such as initiative,
team motivation, and the ability to guide others towards common goals.
Sixthly, educational games often incorporate rules and norms that reflect society's expectations
of appropriate behavior. Through play, participants learn the importance of following rules, ac-
ting with integrity, competing fairly, and showing respect for other players.