None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
This research aims to test the efficacy of a computerised, adaptive, cognitive training program by looking at near-transfer to executive function components and far-transfer to higher order cognitive abilities (fluid intelligence and academic achievement). This research will address previous criticisms of the existing cognitive training literature by: (a) using a cognitive training program that is more aligned to current executive function theory than previous research, by training executive level processes; (b) using multiple measures for each executive function construct to estimate latent scores of executive functions; (c) using randomly allocated experimental and active control groups that utilise similar computer-based tasks and have the same face-to-face contact time so that a realistic comparison can be made as to the efficacy of the cognitive training program; (d) determining the impact of cognitive training on executive functions, fluid intelligence and academic achievement by following a cohort of children over a period of one year; (e) measuring processing speed to determine if this is a potential mediating variable in cognitive training; and (f) assessing the impact of different training expectancies between the experimental and control group and its impact upon training gains. In addition to these student-based measures, behaviourally- based reports from teachers and parents will provide additional sources of evidence of the program’s effects. Lastly, the potential moderating effect of an individual's implicit theory of intelligence on training gains will be assessed.
Interventions
This research will test the efficacy of a computerised cognitive training program. The training program runs 5 days per week for 6.5 weeks with 1 x 20 minute session per day. The training will be completed in a classroom with the researcher providing instructions and supervising administration. Progress of individual participants can be monitored by the researcher using an online portal.
The training program involves the completion of a number of game-like cognitive training programs (e.g. sele
This research will test the efficacy of a computerised cognitive training program. The training program runs 5 days per week for 6.5 weeks with 1 x 20 minute session per day. The training will be completed in a classroom with the researcher providing instructions and supervising administration. Progress of individual participants can be monitored by the researcher using an online portal. The training program involves the completion of a number of game-like cognitive training programs (e.g. selecting a picture that matches a pre-determined rule; selecting coloured balls based on a pre-determined rule; selecting an appropriate card to complete a pattern). One year after the training is completed, the whole training process is completed over again using the same procedure as outlined above.
Sponsors
University of Sydney, Dr Paul Ginns
Study design
Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Intervention model
Parallel
Primary purpose
Educational / counselling / training
Masking
Blinded (masking used) (Subject)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
Male
Age
7 Years to 12 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
A random sample of Year 3 and Year 5 students from a boys-only school.
Exclusion criteria
Nil
Outcome results
None listed