RedOctane's Dance Video Game Supports Academic Success In the Groove Stimulates Learning Through Child Mentor Program REDMOND, Ore., June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- RedOctane(R), a leading creator of music video games and peripherals, announced today the results from research that studied the effects of integrating the In The Groove dance video game into third and fourth grade classes. The 5-month pilot program study at Vern Patrick Elementary School in Redmond, Oregon, showed that the use of In The Groove helped promote the development of social skills, increased self-image, and fostered teamwork. "Children are highly motivated to play video games and infusing In The Groove as a teaching tool had a great impact on overall learning," said Judy Shasek, M.S., Vern Patrick study coordinator and fitness consultant. Student leaders known as "Groove Masters" became mentors who taught their peers how to play the game. Throughout the school day, time was scheduled for groups of students to play the game together. Teachers, administrators, and students were surprised by the positive results from this extra physical activity. PILOT PROGRAM RESULTS: -- The absenteeism rate dropped by more than 50%. -- Teachers reported that 85% of the mentors demonstrated a growth in social skills. -- Teachers reported that 94% of the students demonstrated an increase in leadership skills and confidence, impacting student's self-esteem and academic success. -- Testing showed that 4th graders using In The Groove improved their mile run times by 13.8%. -- Students reported more enthusiasm for sports, fitness and dance than before the program began. To see the children from the Vern Patrick study playing In The Groove please go to http://www.getupmove.com/ ADDITIONAL RESULTS: Heather Renz, one of the lead teachers in the study, was selected as a Microsoft Innovative Technology Teacher from the U.S. (for more info visit http://www.generation-fit.com/microsoft.htm ) for her use of In The Groove as a fitness and brain-training solution in the classroom. Justin, who is challenged with both cerebral palsy and autism, was very open to trying In The Groove. As a result of playing In The Groove, Justin developed improved motor skills, and appreciated the active participation with his classmates. Many students like Justin, who had previously not enjoyed PE class, really liked getting aerobic exercise through playing the game. RedOctane and Vern Patrick researchers have used the pilot program results to develop an educational model for future similar school programs. If your school's interested in learning more or integrating a similar program please contact Judy Shasek at . About RedOctane Based in Sunnyvale, California, RedOctane(R) is a leading creator of music video games and peripherals. For more than two years RedOctane has been the top online retailer provider of dance games and unique, high-quality dance accessories in the U.S. For additional information on RedOctane please visit http://www.redoctane.com/. DATASOURCE: RedOctane CONTACT: Tracie Snitker of Reverb Communications, Inc., +1-209-586-1495, ext. 104, or , for RedOctane Web site: http://www.redoctane.com/

Copyright