CogniFit Computerized Cognitive Training in Primary School Students in Hong Kong

Overview

This study aims to address these gaps by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of CogniFit training in children. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of CogniFit training on executive functions among primary school students in Hong Kong. Specific objectives include: 1. To assess the effectiveness of CogniFit training on improving executive functions, such as working memory, attention, and inhibitory control in children compared to a waitlist control group. 2. To assess the effectiveness of CogniFit training on improving executive functions, such as working memory, attention, and inhibitory control in children compared to an active control group that will receive Cogmed training. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1) the CogniFit training group; 2) the Cogmed Group, and 3) the wailist controlled group. Participants in the two computerized cognitive training groups (CogniFit/Cogmed Group) will receive training in the first phase of intervention, while the waitlist control group will CogniFit trainings in the second phase of intervention. Participants who receive the computerized cognitive training will complete 24 sessions of training, 15-20 minutes each, conducted three times per week spanning 8 weeks. These programs comprise a range of game-like exercises targeting various cognitive skills, including working memory, attention, and inhibitory control, with automatic level advancement after each exercise. To investigate the intervention effectiveness, children will be asked to complete a set of cognitive tests covering inhibitory control, attention, and working memory prior to the intervention (i.e., Time 1), immediately after the 8-week training (i.e., Time 2), and 2 months after the training (i.e., Time 3, a 2-month follow up). The assessment will take around 1 hour and it will be conducted at participants' schools. Also, parents will be asked to complete a questionnaire assessing children's behaviours at home and schools at 3 time points.