Differential effects of reasoning and speed training in children

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7687.2010.01005.x
• Publication Date: 2010-11-23T10:32:22Z
• Authors: Allyson P. Mackey; Susanna S. Hill; Susan I. Stone; Silvia A. Bunge
• Keywords: Cognitive Training

Abstract The goal of this study was to determine whether intensive training can ameliorate cognitive skills in children. Children aged 7 9 from low socioeconomic backgrounds participated one two programs for 60 minutes/day and 2 days/week, a total 8 weeks. Both consisted commercially available computerized non‐computerized games. Reasoning emphasized planning relational integration; speed rapid visual detection motor responses. Standard assessments reasoning ability – the Test Non‐Verbal Intelligence (TONI‐3) (Coding B WISC IV) were administered all children before after training. Neither group exposed these standardized tests during improved substantially on TONI (Cohen’s d = 1.51), exhibiting an average increase 10 points Performance IQ, but did not improve Coding. By contrast, Coding (d 1.15), TONI. Counter widespread belief, results indicate that both fluid processing are modifiable by