The Effectiveness of Computer-Aided Working Memory Training on Improvement of Executive Functions and Math Performances in Students with Mathematics Disorder

SoltaniKouhbanani, Sakineh; Alizadeh, Hamid; Hashemi, Janet; Sarami, Gholamreza; SoltaniKouhbanani, Sajedeh

The Effectiveness of Computer-Aided Working Memory Training on Improvement of Executive Functions and Math Performances in Students with Mathematics Disorder

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

sakineh SoltaniKouhbanani

hamid alizadeh

Janet Hashemi

Gholamreza Sarami

Sajedeh SoltaniKouhbanani

Abstract

The present research aims to study the effect of
computer-aided working memory training on executive functions and math
performances in students with mathematics disorders. This was a
quasi-experimental research. From among all the students in centers for
learning disorders, 20 female students with mathematics disorder studying at
the 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th grades of elementary
schools in the educational year 2011-2012 in Tehran were selected using
convenience sampling method. The subjects were randomly assigned into the two
control and experiment groups. the Key Math Diagnostic Arithmetic Test as well
as executive functions tests (including the Tower of London Test, the
Continuous Performance Test and Stroop test cards) were carried out on the
subjects. Then, the experiment group (including students with mathematics
disorder) received 20 sessions of computer-aided working memory training in 7
weeks. Afterwards, all the subjects (both experiment and control groups) were
assessed in terms of executive functions and math performances. It is
noteworthy that the control group did not receive any training. Both groups
received only the school trainings. One month later, the post-test was
administrated. The results of the pre-test and post-test were analyzed using
t-test. The results showed that computer-aided working memory training had a
significant effect on executive functions and math performances of students
with mathematics disorder, and could improve it. The findings of this research
can be used in neurological and educational interferences

Keywords

:Computer-Aided Training

executive functions

Working memory

Mathematics Disorder