Comparing the Effectiveness of computerized cognitive rehabilitation and neuropsychological exercises on Improving working memory and continuous attention in students with dyslexia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of computer-based cognitive rehabilitation and practical neuropsychological interventions on working memory and sustained attention in students with dyslexia. The method of this study was experimental and its design was multi-group pretest and posttest with control group. Statistical population of this study included elementary students with dyslexia in Amol and Mahmoudabad cities during the academic year of 1397-98, who were referred to learning disability centers. 45 students were selected by convenience sampling method and assisted by diagnostic tests of Raven and reading and dyslexic test (NAMA). They were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental groups were received 14 interventions sessions. The computer version of the n-back test and computer version of the continuous performance task were used for gathering data in two pre and posttest stages. Data were analyzed by multivariate analysis of covariance. The results showed that computer-based rehabilitation was more effective (P<0.05) on the amount of correct responses in sustained attention, and correct response and reaction time in working memory in comparing to practical neuropsychological exercises. These results reveal that computerized cognitive rehabilitation with providing the visual and audio attractions and the creation of opportunities appropriate to the level of child's development can provide a more appropriate field for improving the defects of the high-quality functions of the minds of people with dyslexia.

Keywords

• cognitive rehabilitation
• neuropsychological exercises
• working memory
• sustained attention
• dyslexia