Hans B and I presented the topic of human development via DDR together. The key benefits that I discussed are: physical, rhythmic, and cerebral. I mentioned the neuro-plasticity aspect of this game in relation to Maryanne Wolf's "Proust and the Squid", but did not include a quote, therefore I will mention one here. Wolf writes:
"A system that can become streamlined through specialization and automatically has more time to think. This is the miraculous gift of the reading brain."I have found this to apply to the game of DDR because of the reading of the arrows. I believe this could have some benefits outside the game. Though DDR's style of dancing is much different than dancing in other public settings, the rhythmic and physical benefits in combination with this automaticity achieved from DDR could lead to being more confident in social dance settings. Having that "time to think" once you make the change in style will not only alleviate any negative self-consciousness but also allow you to be more fully present.
So why not ditch the arrows and only play more realistic dance games with Xbox Kinect? Well, I'm not actually trying to downplay newer games. However, there is something to be said about the very structured straightforward gameplay of DDR. By creating a set of rules, the player is actually allowed to be freer to push themselves physically. Similarly, a piano player is not truly free to play the piano until they know something about tempo, rhythm, pitch, key signature, the positioning of hands, and time signature. Even if you find the dance moves to be irrelevant, Dance Dance Revolution is certainly a fun way to contribute towards one's development.
I agree that having the structure of the arrows allows the player to push himself harder than before. having basic steps that you can practice and understand at slower pace would enable you to push harder and harder. This would enhance both the physical workout that the game provides and the reflexes of the dancer.
ReplyDeleteI played a fair share of DDR growing up, and to look at the game from this perspective of is interesting! It had never previously occurred to me that the straightforward gameplay of DDR could be benefiting me mentally.
ReplyDeleteNevertheless, Turkle would argue against this kind of technology. Can't you achieve the same mental advantages you may potentially attain playing DDR in an environment with less technology and more interaction? Carr would also argue that we are deflating our mental capacity by relying so heavily on technological solutions.
In a way, this technology promotes social and antisocial activities. As with most other technologies, the outcome depends on the individuals that use it. One person could use DDR at parties, while another could use it alone. Both would get exercise but only one would have human interaction.
ReplyDeleteEdward, I really enjoyed how you brought the UMass Amherst study into your presentation; it shows how the technology behind "Dance Dance Revolution" has not only the potential to improve physical development, but intellectual as well. As a follow up: do you, as a musician, feel that you have experienced a growth in your rhythmic ability as a result of playing DDR?
ReplyDeleteAlthough I do not play, nor have I ever, I think that this technology is great. Unless it becomes a destructive addiction, I really can't think of a less harmless device that we've discussed in class so far. Whether it comes from movies, video games, or books, everyone needs some form of entertainment in their life. The fact that this is a recreational activity that is mentally stimulating on top of the physical demands is pretty incredible. Still will probably not play it, because I have no rhythm, but I like it!
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