The effect of a computer-aided cognitive enrichment programme on the scholastic performance of children: an exploratory study

Abstract

Childhood is one of the most challenging stages of human life, characterized by constant growth and development- physically and psychologically. The normal growth and development of the brain occurs in parallel with the growth and development of cognitive functions. Atypical brain development may cause deficits in neuropsychological functions, resulting in academic difficulties. Attention, information processing and working memory are 3 functions that have been associated with scholastic problems in children. The lack of clarity in defining learning difficulty may lead to under-diagnosis of the problem in children and therefore, denial of possible help. Identifying children at risk and providing general intervention could be a model for prevention adopted in the Indian context. Average scholastic performance in lower classes can be a sign of risk for future difficulties in learning. Computer based interventions have scope for great use for children . Cogmed (for working memory) and FastForWord (for phonological processing) are 2 computer based programmes that have been repeatedly used with promising results. The Brain Functions Therapy(BFT), a computer-based programme developed in India, has been used in this study. This intervention targets core functions such as visuo-spatial processing, attention, working memory and response inhibition, which in turn contribute to intellectual and academic skills. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the BFT on the scholastic performance of children in classes 3, 4 and 5. The objectives of the study were to identify children with average scholastic performance in these classes, and assess their intellectual, academic and behavioural profile. The other objective was to find out the impact of the cognitive enrichment programme on the scholasticperformance, intellectual functioning and behaviour of these children. A before-after experimental design with controls was adopted for the present study.