Multi-domain computerized cognitive training for children with intellectual developmental disorder: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: To verify the effects of multi-domain computerized cognitive training on intellectual function and adaptive functioning in children with intellectual developmental disorder (IDD).

Methods: Children with IDD were randomized to a multi-domain computerized cognitive training (CCT) group (n = 30) and control group (n = 30). Both groups received a 5-week training program. Intellectual function was assessed by Chinese-Wechsler Young Children scale (C-WYCSI) and adaptive functioning was assessed by the Chinese Vineland Adaptive Behavior Rating Scale (VABS-C), which were used at baseline, post-training, and 3-month follow-up.

Results: There were significant differences for intellectual function and adaptive functioning between the two groups. The CCT group showed significant improvements in total full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) score the Wechsler Intelligence Scale (F[60] = 31.97, p < 0.01) and its subdomain VIQ score (F[60] = 33.83, p < 0.01). For adaptive functioning, CCT had a better adaptive developmental quotient (ADQ) score (F[60] = 28.05, p < 0.01), and subdomain communication (F[60] = 10.86, p < 0.01) and socialization scores (F[60] = 4.35, p < 0.015). Moreover, there was a positive correlation between FSIQ changes and ADQ changes in the CCT group (r_s = 0.74, p < 0.01). A greater increase in VIQ score was associated with a greater increase in adaptive functioning (bootstrapping CI: [0.16, 3.30]) in the CCT group.

Conclusion: Multi-domain CCT improves the intellectual function and adaptive functioning of children with IDD.

Keywords: adaptive behavior; children rehabilitation; computerized cognitive training; intellectual developmental disorder; intellectual function.

Figure 1

The eight trials of computerized cognitive training. (A) Visual perception block, including the spatial perception and perceptual speed trials. (B) Attention block, including the select reaction time trial and space exploration trial. (C) Working memory block, including the memory span trial and visual memory trial. (D) Reasoning block, including the deductive reasoning and figure recognition trials.

Figure 2

CCT study protocol and participant flow according to Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines.

Figure 3

Within-group comparisons of (A) FSIQ, (B) VIQ, (C) PIQ, (D) arithmetic, (E) vocabulary, and (F) adaptive functioning scores for the baseline and post-training assessment occasions. Horizontal lines indicate significant post hoc comparisons with paired t-tests (^*p ≤ 0.05, two-tailed). Significant group × time interaction effects were found in FSIQ, VIQ, and arithmetic.

Figure 4

The VIQ change (ΔVIQ) due to the intervention mediates the group’s effect on ADQ change (ΔADQ). Group was the independent variable (experimental = 1, control = 0), ΔVIQ was the mediator variable, and ΔADQ was the dependent variable. Beside each arrow is the bootstrapping confidence interval (CI) of each effect. ^*p < 0.05.

Figure 5

Correlation analyses performed between the changes of the intelligent function and adaptive functioning that show significant time × group interaction effects.