Game based learning and children with ADHD
Game Based Learning and Children with ADHD Margaret Sullivan Carr, M.B.A. Mary Jean Tecce DeCarlo, Ph.D. Children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may exhibit behavioral and executive function issues that affect classroom learning. Documented behaviors include inattention, disruptive behavior, and poor social relationships (Gureasko Moore, DuPaul, White, 2006) Support for children with ADHD has primarily focused on behavioral modifications and organizational skill enhancement. Computerassisted or game based learning has shown promise with this population in small scale studies (Mautone, 2005; Ota, 2002) This case study research sought to investigate the use of gamebased learning and children with ADHD. The subjects were high school aged children with the primary diagnosis of ADHD who received a game based intervention. This study shows gamebased learning has a positive effect on students with ADHDs' engagement and interest in Math. The analysis of the data from the qualitative portion of this study lends itself to a grounded theory approach indicating game based learning is an important consideration in curriculum development for students with ADHD.