There has been a lot of conversation in educational circles about using online games for learning. At my university they have a games for learning initiative where they focus on using the game to teach folks educational things. One of the most popular applications is the online role playing game World of Warcraft. There are several people writing about how it teaches kids leadership and teamwork skills while still keeping them engaged. (World of Warcraft in Education Google Search)

One of the questions I have had for while is “Is there a play for Games for Learning in Spiritual Education?”

I’m not really sure what the answer is to that one. Part of me says yes, at least the game part of me. We use all sorts of games in scripture mastery classes to keep the students involved. And I bet that World of Warcraft, and other similar games, do teach the kids some good skills about teamwork and leadership. Hey, they may even provide some good missionary oppotunities, but what else are they teaching them?

Satan Twisting Things

It seems like this is just another one of Satan’s tricks. “But look at all the good it is teaching them.” I have heard similar arguments in so many different situations. How about “It was a great movie… if it weren’t for that one scene.” Yes, there is good that can happen everywhere, and I imagine someone could even say that there was some missionary work done in World of Warcraft, but how many people were lost in there too? If you look at souls lost and gained on a balance I’d wager that the lost would practically tilt the scale.

This morning I came across a GREAT article by Robert Walsh entitled “The spiritual ricks of online role-playing games.” He tells the sad story of a young man that wouldn’t go on a mission because he was so addicted to World of Warcraft. A couple of quotes:

Online gaming strikes at the heart of many issues facing families.
Technology intersects with our lives and drives business and
entertainment, he said. The biggest issues are wasting time and
compulsive behaviors.

He then goes on to lay out ways to protect our home from this harmful technology, as well signs to tell if someone you love is addicted. There are several more sad stories of this game ruining lives. Most of all we need to be vigilant and involved in our kids lives…