i believe educators should match the technology that students use with education as much as possible because if the students are already using the technology very often then it should be simple for them to use with the classroom activities.

Instant messaging can go either way. I know i find myself somewhat distracted from class when there is instant messaging going on but if one could discuss classroom materials back and forth rapidly without having to wait on a complete email or being in person, it makes it that more convenient.

I do think there are benefits to asynchronous communication because the student will get the chance to read it more than once and can do research right away based on what they can read while synchronous communication face to face can cause students to miss on some information needed.

Im not really into videogames at all anymore so i don't know how it would affect my learning/studying abilities. I agree with the article that videogames can be affective in studying on the basis that it is always an educational videogame. I would personally not stop my children from playing videogames but i would encourage them to get out and do more physical activities and do my best to help them with their studies myself.