GRU professors use DVDs, video games to improve students' vocabulary

AUGUSTA, GA (WFXG) - For two Georgia Regents University professors, video games and movies have become a way to help students improve their reading skills.

"Expand that child's mental range, mental abilities and capabilities," explains Project Director Dr. Walter Evans. "It's the ground level for all learning."

The actual reading of words isn't what Evans and Co-Project Director Dr. Paulette Harris are looking to improve however.

Instead, it's the students' vocabulary skills.

"We want them to be able to speak well enough that they are able to talk to a variety of individuals of different ages and grade levels," says Harris. "At the same time, to be able to understand that which is being spoken to them."

The DVD was used with over 450 Richmond Co. Kindergarten students, and the project has brought in results not even the professors expected: a 20% jump in average vocabulary scores.