Health professionals view exergame technologies as an alternative tool in therapeutic treatments and the promotion of physical activity. There is a growing body of work addressing the health benefits of exergaming; however, there is limited knowledge concerning user experience in this new context. If we aim to encourage participation in exergaming, we must first understand why gamers currently play exergames. Exergaming refers to the computer games that require players to perform some level of physical exertion to play. For this reason, the present study compares the motivations that encourage participation in three contexts (exercise, computer games, and exergaming) to identify key elements that support such participation. Survey instruments were administered in each context, and motivational components were addressed within self-determination theory. Findings suggest perceptions of enjoyment and feeling better after a session and participation within a social context are key factors that encourage participation in the three contexts. Participation in exergaming is also encouraged by perceptions of performing mild exercise while playing videogames. Exergamers might not experience an optimal challenge while playing, and this may lower their motivation. Participation in exercise is also encouraged by perceptions of being healthier and, in some instances, driven to avoid feelings of guilt. Gamers also play computer games encouraged by perceptions being in a better mood after session, although some gamers might also participate aiming to gain social acceptance.
It is said that playing video games might make people more creative. There is some evidence of an association, but no so far general theory about any psychological causes, or other key factors. In this study, we test the possibility that different sorts of video games may have different effects, on different types of creativity; or none at all. Three games were tested, including a sandbox and a puzzle game (Minecraft and Portal 2), and creativity was measured by the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT). The games were hound to have different effects, and on only some measures. We discuss possible accounts for these results, and offer practical suggestions to better control such studies in future. The strongest and most surprising result was that one particular form of creativity, flexibility, was affected much more than others. This finding awaits a theoretical explanation; but in the meantime, the implication is that video games could be used to put students into a more creative state of mind, which may be useful for their learning.
As the prevalence of target focussed aiming in golf putting increases amongst professionals and amateurs alike, it is important to understand its operation if the synergy between research and practice is to be optimised. Therefore, the current paper's aims were firstly to review and critique existing empirical literature. Although our observations of these studies were informative, however, we identified a number of key methodological inconsistencies and omissions, which limits our understanding as a complete evidence-base across studies. Consequently and secondly, we provide insight into possible mechanisms for how target focussed aiming might work with corresponding measures for investigating these suggestions. Finally, we propose a number of methodological considerations that need to be addressed by future research. It is hoped this research will inform future practice when coaching the skill of putting.
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