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Written by Jenny Hilliard
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Wednesday, 19 March 2008 14:05 |
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The physical education department bought a Nintendo Wii game system with money it received from a grant from the Supporters of Excellence in Educational Development (SEED) Foundation. The Wii, which generally costs $250, will most likely be introduced as an option for physical education classes on cardiovascular workout days. Linda Knutson, the Integrated Health teacher, said that for the next two weeks “we’re trying it out. It’s to give people options instead of doing traditional games.”
This type of video game takes a more active approach to the ones before it, forcing players to get up and move with the game. It may not seem too intense but Tim Kenney, assistant principal, tried out the Wii with his kids and was impressed. “I’m going to get one for them,” said Kenney. “You can play against each other. It’s really interactive and a lot of fun.”Several recent studies have been conducted about the Wii, showing that it has helped several people lose weight and has also aided in physical therapy for people recovering from ailments ranging from broken bones to cancer. “I had read an article about how they brought it in into schools,” Knutson said.In the face of growing rates of childhood obesity, physical education teachers hope the Wii will encourage exercise in an almost hidden, but effective and enjoyable way, much like the Dance Dance Revolution game that was also purchased with grant money. Aiden Sperry, junior and owner of a Wii system, appreciates the concept of the game system and said, “The Wii provides a new aspect to video games.” The Wii is still being tried out, so it is not officially part of the physical education curriculum yet, but this concept of technology merging with exercise has definitely been adopted by the department. “With this new grant we are so open to new things,” said Knutson. “We’re even open to students talking to us about fun new things they’ve heard about.”
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 19 March 2008 15:41 )
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