If you are confused by the apparently crazy numbers in front of the following two items, it is because we have been listing two reasons for using training games in each of the past 17 issues of the GameLetter. If you are curious, you can review the back issues.

47. The impact of casual games. This type of online games last for a short period of time. Popular examples include Bejeweled, Minefield, and Solitaire. Casual games have simple rules that can be easily understood. Players can reach a level of proficiency after a few rounds of play. However, players will become addicted and continue playing to accumulate higher scores. It is obvious that casual games can be used to provide highly motivating opportunities for repeated practice, especially for mastering basic language and mathematical skills.

48. The playing species. In the evolutionary tree, what makes human beings different from other animals is that they are the most playful species. The Dutch cultural theorist, professor Johan Huizinga calls the human species Homo Ludens or "Man the Player". This fact supports the use of games for teaching and training human beings.