The Role of History-Themed Non-Educational Computer Games on Primary School Children’ (at Grades 6th, 7th and 8th) Perceptions of History

As it is known, the computer games are occupying a large part of children's daily life. In this study, we primarily aimed to put a framework based on the gender variable, and additionally how many hours a day children spend on computer games, which historical games they play and how their attitudes are towards these games.The main purpose of the study is to understand the role of the history-themed non-educational computer games on elementary students’ perceptions of history. Participants of the study are primary school children at grades 6th, 7th and 8th, who attend the Information Technologies course in the academic year of 2011-2012. The data collected from the participants is analyzed quantitatively.As a result, the role of history-themed non-educational computer games on students’ perceptions of history is interpreted in terms of positive and negative aspects and suggestions are made regarding how these games could be adapted to history education in primary years.