| title: | Influence of the training of working memory on hyperactive children |
|---|---|
| reg no: | ETF5689 |
| project type: | Estonian Science Foundation research grant |
| subject: |
5.5. Pedagogy |
| status: | completed |
| institution: | TU Faculty of Education |
| head of project: | Jaan Kõrgesaar |
| duration: | 01.01.2004 - 31.12.2005 |
| description: | 2-year study is aimed at diminishing children's hyperactivity by training their working memory. Working memory deficit is recently being considered among the main features of ADHD (hyperkinetic behaviour disorder in ICD-10; prevalence between 3 and 8%). Klingberg et al. (2002) supposed that by training the working memory the specific ADHD symptoms could be reduced. Their expriment to test relevant training program significantly reduced motor (hyper)activity of subjects, whose post-test results were significantly better as well. However, the experiment was performed with a limited number of subjects, collection af data failed partly, data remains limited to the laboratory environment and its durability has not been monitored. It will be attempted to carry out modified Klingberg's et al experiments, to compare results of ADHD and mild mental retardation (MMM) subgroups. MMM population displays the working memory deficit and - quite often -- hyperactive behaviours as well. Elaboration of a training program like this would be important in a rehabilitation of children with hyperkinetic disorders, because there is no actual cure to this problem (the stimulators are used), also special strategies are in use in teaching these children, e.g. offering small amounts of information, short term activities, constant feedback etc. 40 subjects, age 10-12, with ICD-10 diagnoses of F 90 and F70, correspondingly, come from three relevant-profile Estonian special-needs schools; their teachers and parents are included for monitoring. Trainig program would be an animated computer program (game). Pre- and posttests on prefrontal functioning will be carried out immediately before and after the training. Same features will be checked two months later. Teachers and parents have to fulfill checklists covering child's motorical activity, attention span. |
| project group | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| no | name | institution | position | |
| 1. | Anu Aavik | Tartu Ülikool | koordinaator | |
| 2. | Jaan Kõrgesaar | TU Faculty of Education | professor | |