GLOBAL CHALLENGES

Computer Game Hones Decision-Making Skills

Rebecca Kutzer-Rice | Date: 01-31-11 | Comments

A prototype computer game trains people to evaluate their own subjective opinions and biases before making decisions. The high-tech tool could be used in schools, by the military and in offices to teach personnel critical skills.

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Computer Game Hones Decision-Making Skills
In recent years, video and computer games have become about more than just racing cars or gunning down imaginary enemies. A few months ago, for instance, we wrote about how gaming technology is being used to reduce radiation exposure for cancer patients. Now, a computer game has been developed to help users learn life skills, such as critical decision-making.

Designed by researchers at Queen's University Belfast, the prototype game could someday be used as a training tool for many different professions, including military use. The game could also help hone decision-making skills in the general public. Additionally, features of the technology could be incorporated into existing strategy-based video games.

In its study, the team researched how people can improve the outcomes of their decisions by factoring in subjective opinions and personal biases�like overconfidence in self-skills.

The study focuses largely on realistic, daily decisions that people make, such as whether or not to run to catch a train. In order to make the best decisions, users must consider the information at hand, which is constantly changing. They also must evaluate their objective chances against their personal opinions.

"It's the first ever online quiz designed to let people estimate how sure they are of their answers and score more highly if they don't ignore their uncertainty but realistically assess it," said Dr. David Newman in the university's press release. Dr. Newman, a professor at Queen's University Management School, led the team.

Dr. Newman continued: "Whether the choices facing us are simple or complex, a greater awareness of uncertainty and of our own biases can improve the quality of our decision-making. We believe there's real potential for people to acquire that awareness through computer games."

Next: Game Is About Confidence Levels >>