Project Description
Challenge
Individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities commonly experience attention and executive function (EF) deficits that influence their development. Attention and executive function are involved in goal-driven behaviours, and include abilities such as focusing, inhibition, remembering, and regulating emotions and behaviours.
Project Summary
A growing body of literature has demonstrated that computerized training can be useful in improving attention and EF abilities. KBHN co-funded the development of a computer-based “serious game” for children with attention and executive function deficits called Caribbean Quest (CQ).
The game systematically builds a player’s capacity to sustain attention and deal with distraction. It also holds information in working memory and engages higher-level executive function skills through increasingly difficult levels of play. It has a self-adjusting format and is developed based on validated neuroscientific principles that support changes at the level of the brain and in related behaviours.
Educational Assistants (EAs) delivered Caribbean Quest in schools to children with ASD, FASD and other neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD). They also delivered Caribbean Quest to children who exhibited attention/executive function problems but did not have a formal diagnosis. The EA’s were provided with training materials that provided instruction in strategic problem-solving strategies, which is critical for transferring gains from the intervention into real life. Caribbean Quest is based on the principle that a combination of game-play and this type of ‘metacognitive’ instruction is required for meaningful improvements.
Results indicated gains in a range of cognitive and behavioural skills, and that the Caribbean Quest was promising as a feasible, affordable, and effective treatment option in communities and schools. These positive helped to enhance the game and expand its content to work with older children, preschool age groups and children with a broader range of neurodevelopmental concerns.
Result
This research holds significant possible benefits for improving cognitive ability and quality of life for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families. The results suggest that the software holds strong potential for delivery at a distance and as a home-based intervention for children with neurodevelopmental disorders impacting attention and EF.
Team
Investigators
Kimberly Kerns, University of Victoria
Sarah Macoun, University of Victoria
