Cognitive Modeling To Inform the Design of Executive Function Training

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K20996
• Project/Area Number (Other): 18H05804 (2018)
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Research Activity Start-up
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund (2019); Single-year Grants (2018)
• Review Section: 0110:Psychology and related fields
• Research Institution: Hokkaido University (2021-2022); The University of Tokyo (2018-2020)
• Principal Investigator: Robb Nigel 北海道大学, メディア・コミュニケーション研究院, 特任准教授 (00825466)
• Project Period (FY): 2018-08-24 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: Cognitive training / Cognitive models

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The aim of this project was to investigate the feasibility of using computer models of human cognition to simulate how people learn when playing cognitive training games. This involves creating a simplified model of human cognition, which simulates how information is processed during interaction with cognitive training games. This allows us to implement very specific theories of human cognition and compare their performance with results from empirical research involving human subjects. If successful, these models could be used as a design tool, to help us develop more effective cognitive training games.

Overall, while the feasibility of the approach was partially demonstrated, several important challenges were also identified during the research. Preliminary research results have been disseminated at conferences, and a final paper explaining the challenges discovered is currently in preparation.

Free Research Field

Serious game design

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

現代社会では、脳トレゲームと脳トレアプリは手軽にダウンロードし使用できる人気ツールです。一般の方々を始め、認知障害がある方や高齢者の方々も使っています。しかし、それらのゲームとアプリは本当に認知機能を向上させることができるのか、議論がありました。本研究では、脳トレゲームとアプリのデザインを上げるように、認知モデルを開発しました。