Video games have grown in popularity tremendously, going from serving entertainment purposes alone to becoming a recognized sport. With it, esports has also taken over by storm. Despite earlier resistance to incorporation in school sporting activities, video games have eventually warmed their way into the hearts of many school management teams. Schools that encourage their students to participate in video games can reap wholesome benefits, including:

1. Better school attendance

Achieving 100% attendance ratings is not a walk in the park, and many learning institutions have to contend with absenteeism regularly. The introduction of Edtech and video games in schools is an excellent catalyst for previously uninspired learners to have something to look forward to every school day. Shy students who may not have enough courage to participate in conventional physical sports can find a softer landing in video games, where they do not need to say much as most of the attention is on the game, as opposed to the player. 

2. Building team spirit

Esports teams, like every other team in conventional sports, have to work together to come up with a winning strategy to beat their opponents. Being on team calls for coordination and communication from players. Students who play regularly get to understand what teamwork entails and all share the joys of winning and take in the losses in stride. This collaboration often spills over to other aspects of school life, including academics, where quick learners can help their slower counterparts grasp challenging topics in class.

3. Improving academic performance

When students attend most of their lessons, there is little room for failure. The learner is present when the teachers introduce learning topics and can ask for clarification on grey areas. It is also easier for teachers to notice problems with their students early on if they make an effort to be present on all school days. Better attendance also eases the burden on educators, who have to go back and forth to ensure that students who missed classes catch up with the rest instead of using an essay writer online. Moreover, being a member of the esports team comes with performance expectations. Students will try their best to meet the required grades to remain in the team.

4. Helping students earn scholarships

Now that esports is a recognized activity in many learning institutions, it attracts perks like scholarships for students who excel in video games. Quality education remains an illusion for many students, and the reality of attracting sponsors is enough to inspire such students to achieve the required skills academically and sports-wise. Players can expect partial or full scholarships. Coaches keep a keen eye on talented players in major tournaments to establish students who can qualify for the types of scholarships on offer.

5. Developing social skills

Taking part in video games in school means that students are constantly interacting with each other. While social skills may come naturally to many learners, a good percentage of students take time to learn social interaction. Besides, students who might not have siblings or friends in the home setting can find great company as they go about their video gaming sessions in school. Students learn to listen to other students, share responsibilities, and become part of social circles outside the home. These skills are essential for the seamless integration of learners into society after school.

6. Career opportunities

Times have changed dramatically, and you can now learn esports in college. Several universities have rolled out a degree in esports, which surprisingly has attracted the support of students and parents. The booming esports industry requires skilled expertise to meet the needs of players and stakeholders. Job opportunities in the field include software developers, management roles, coaching positions, graphic design, and marketing skills. Esports professional players have joined the league of highly paid sports personalities who get to traverse various countries and earn decent amounts of salaries as full-time players. Some pro esports outfits include Space and Doublelift, who command a decent following and earn decent sums of money for their skills.

7. Acquisition of soft skills

With the high levels of automation in the modern world, soft skills are in high demand. Modern jobs require candidates to showcase traits like critical thinking, interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, levels of creativity, and adaptability. Soft skills’ uniqueness lies in the fact that they are difficult to automate. Esports players get to develop these skills over time and have an advantage over their peers who may not demonstrate similar qualities. Students who excel in esports also gain high levels of confidence that is necessary for the highly competitive job market.

Conclusion

Given the inclination towards technology and adaptation of tech advancements, video games are here to stay and projected to experience tremendous growth as their popularity spreads globally. Incorporating esports in schools is a sure step to ensure students acquire relevant skills and play their part in the adaptation of tech in learning environments.