Why are Facebook games easier than general computer use?

Twice in the past week I came across clients who consider themselves computer illiterate (I abhor this phrase, but that’s a whole different issue.yet could operate Facebook games like a professional gamer.  The two folks (one woman, one man and both well over 70) have difficulty understanding how email operates in terms of servers, providers, etc, have not learned how to copy and paste, think that Google is THE Internet, and would rather not learn more about their security software other than asking me if it is working.

However, through the course of my visit with each of them (again, separate households), they both had browser issues with Facebook. They logged in to Facebook after typing “Facebook” into Google, waiting for the results, then clicking the link from the Google results. Once at Facebook, they clicked into their Farmville application. I have never played or seen the game myself, so wasn’t sure whether I could help or not, but was absolutely floored at how at ease these tentative users became once in the game. Their facial expressions, mouse clicks, and overall confidence with the computer instantly transformed.

As I sat there watching these folks demonstrate complete mastery over a set of screens and gaming experience that confused the hell out of me, I wondered how could these computer users who have trouble attaching a photo to email or double-clicking an icon become so adept at similar skills in this game? I believe the answer lies in the same one I give to folks when teaching them various skills: If you are interested in the task and it provides some benefit to you, it will be easier to learn.

These Facebook (and other Internet games) seem to do that for some computer users. The instant feedback from the game, the challenge to complete tasks, and the social interaction with their peers all seem to mask the thought that they are actually using a computer to do these things. Again, from just the few moments I watched, the user was demonstrating skills that could easily transfer to their general computer use, but don’t. Once the game screen disappears, these users drop right back to their previous computing fears and skills. When I tried to equate some of the things they had just demonstrated to skills they needed to have or improve in general, their eyes glassed over and minds locked up.

Put me in front of Farmville or Mafia Wars, and I would be exactly like they are when attaching photos and backing up files.

Have you seen this phenomenon or experienced it yourself? Any ideas on how to get computer users to transfer their gaming skills from Facebook or Pogo to the general computer? I would love to hear from you…leave your comments below this article.