Nintendo DS in the University Classroom

The Nintendo DS is making another big appearance in the classroom--this time at a university in Osaka. Before the end of the year, students at Osaka Electro-Communication University will be using the handheld system to study subjects such as English and science.

The university plans to lend systems to all first and second year students, making the Nintendo DS part of the curriculum. The university tested implementation of the systems in July 2006 in English classes. Most students saw improvement in their listening skills and enjoyed using the system.

The university also cites the low cost of the Nintendo DS compared to computers as a reason for using them in the classroom.

The university is also planning on creating a team in its game development department that will work on creating Nintendo DS software to teach math.

Osaka Electro-Communication University says that it hopes Nintendo DSes in the classroom will attract students and that the software they develop becomes a new source of income.

via asahi.com