In oder mit Spielen lernen?

The ways in which computer games can affect learning are identified using the example of games for fun, starting out with the aspect of research into learning and teaching theory. Approaches used in behaviourism, cognitivism and individual and social constructivism are compared. In the psychology of emotions, activating and deactivating emotions are distinguished with regard to their learning effect. From the point of view of the psychology of motivation, special emphasis is placed on the self-determination theory, as it stresses the basic needs for experiences of one's own competence, for autonomy and for social integration. The spotlight then moves on to games which are specially designed for learning purposes. The authors provide a quality criteria grid which, if followed, ensures learning is encouraged as much as possible.