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Effects of training strategies implemented in a complex videogame on functional connectivity of attentional networks
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Effects of training strategies implemented in a complex videogame on functional connectivity of attentional networks

Michelle W Voss, Ruchika Shaurya Prakash, Kirk I Erickson, Walter R Boot, Chandramallika Basak, Mark B Neider, Daniel J Simons, Monica Fabiani, Gabriele Gratton and Arthur F Kramer
NeuroImage (Orlando, Fla.), Vol.59(1), pp.138-148
01/02/2012
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2011.03.052
PMID: 21440644

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Abstract

We used the Space Fortress videogame, originally developed by cognitive psychologists to study skill acquisition, as a platform to examine learning-induced plasticity of interacting brain networks. Novice videogame players learned Space Fortress using one of two training strategies: (a) focus on all aspects of the game during learning (fixed priority), or (b) focus on improving separate game components in the context of the whole game (variable priority). Participants were scanned during game play using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), both before and after 20h of training. As expected, variable priority training enhanced learning, particularly for individuals who initially performed poorly. Functional connectivity analysis revealed changes in brain network interaction reflective of more flexible skill learning and retrieval with variable priority training, compared to procedural learning and skill implementation with fixed priority training. These results provide the first evidence for differences in the interaction of large-scale brain networks when learning with different training strategies. Our approach and findings also provide a foundation for exploring the brain plasticity involved in transfer of trained abilities to novel real-world tasks such as driving, sport, or neurorehabilitation. ► We examined the effect of different training strategies on learning and performance. ► Variable priority training enhances learning. ► We used a novel methodology for studying learning-related changes in the brain. ► Learning strategies affected the interaction of different brain networks. ► Plasticity in brain networks was associated with the amount of learning.
Videogame Functional connectivity Space Fortress fMRI Cognitive training Plasticity

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