Annenberg Studies on Computer Games
(ASC Games)

Launched in 2003 with funding provided by the Annenberg Endowment, the “Annenberg Studies on Computer Games” (ASC Games Group) is an interdisciplinary research team that seeks to conduct transdisciplinary, systematic and innovative research about the impact of computer game-playing on individuals, groups, and society at large. While considerable research has focused on the dangers and risks of particular games, we are particularly eager to investigate opportunities for education through the involvement in games.

The mission of ASC Games combines a strong emphasis on entertainment, technology, and globalization with the intention of serving the public interest. Further, it exploits the talent of faculty both in and beyond the Annenberg School, including graduate students in the School’s Global Program. The mission includes pursuing answers to three major, important, issues:

  1. Content. What content is portrayed in bestselling computer games and how stereotypical or innovative is the design? Does the preferred content differ in both genders? Are age restrictions for games appropriate?
  2. Motivation and Usage. What is the appeal of computer games, to what type of game player? Do certain players become “addicted” to playing? What is the nature of the “gaming culture?” What makes a computer game create a sense of “being-there?” Which role do interactivity, game design and game content play for the game playing experience?
  3. Effects. Under which conditions do computer games result in anti-social or pro-social effects? How can game design enhance more effective learning, facilitate language acquisition and improve communication skills? What are the short-term and long-term social consequences of being a “gamer?”

Director
Ute Ritterfeld, Ph.D.
E-mail: ritterfe@usc.edu
Tel: (213) 821-6809
Fax: (213) 821-2996

Assistant
Byoung-Hwa Hwang
E-mail: bhwang@usc.edu

Mailing address
USC Annenberg School for Communication
3502 Watt Way
Los Angeles, CA 90089
USA