October 1, 2009

Contact:
Andra Liwag
NSU Office of Public Affairs
954-262-5309 office
954-873-8494 cell
andrali@nova.edu

Strategic Thinking Games Make Learning Fun & Effective for University School Students

FT. LAUDERDALE-DAVIE, Fla.—Some of the nation's best and brightest business minds are frequently described as "strategic thinkers" and at University School of Nova Southeastern University (NSU) budding strategists are learning these skills early in life by playing specially-designed board games.

The games, created for students in grades 1-3 by Mind Lab® Educational Board Games, compliment University School's existing math and science curriculum. During game play, teachers assess and supervise students, helping them develop their critical thinking, social skills, and emotional intelligence.

"Anticipating your opponent's next move, taking turns, playing fairly, and even cleaning up the pieces at the end of the game—all are skills students need to succeed academically and in life," said Cory DelaFuente, a second grade teacher at University School.

Through this guided play, she said, participants learn about cooperation and communication, become more self-aware and responsible, and improve their problem-solving techniques. The ultimate goal is to teach students how to apply the skills learned through game play to their personal lives and scholastic goals.

Currently, University School second grade students are playing a Spanish game called Quarto and a French game called Abalone. Like chess, these games require strategic and tactical thinking, but they also introduce the elements of teamwork. For more information, please visit www.uschool.nova.edu.