3D Multiple Object Tracking Boosts Working Memory Span: Implications for Cognitive Training in Military Populations

Abstract

Recently, there has been much theoretical and applied interest in the prospects of cognitive training for improving cognition. NeuroTracker is a relatively recent training device for improving dynamic attention in athletes by training 3D multiple-object tracking skills. We examined its effectiveness for improving working memory (WM) span in members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) by randomly assigning participants to the experimental (NeuroTracker), active control (adaptive dual n-back task), or passive control (no contact) conditions. NeuroTracker training resulted in significant gains in verbal, visual, and matrix span. No gain was observed in the active or passive control group. These results suggest that NeuroTracker could be a useful training tool for increasing WM span in military samples. Future studies could examine the effects of NeuroTracker training on militarily relevant performance measures that draw on WM span.

• working memory
• cognitive training
• attention

Notes

1 Our preference would have been to have all training occur in the same location. Unfortunately, due to logistic difficulties, it did not appear feasible to administer daily training to all participants in the same lab space. This presents a limitation of our design.

2 These significance patterns did not change when we instead conducted ANOVAs and entered Shipley-2 verbal and block design scores as covariates for verbal and visual/matrix span, respectively.