Cognitive Ability Predicts Older Adult Performance in a Complex Task but is Moderated by Social Interaction. (September 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Juliani, Arthur; Leidheiser, William; McLaughlin, Anne; Allaire, Jason; Gandy, Maribeth
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society ... Annual Meeting. Volume 57:Part 1(2013)
• Page Start: 1740
• Page End: 1744
• Publication Date: 2013-09
• Subjects: Human engineering -- Congresses; 620.8205
• DOI: 10.1177/1541931213571388
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1541-9312

Abstract

Previous research has examined the effects of cognitive training on cognitive abilities. However, the contribution of cognitive abilities to learning to perform the tasks used as cognitive training, such as complex video games, is not completely understood. Additionally, social interaction while playing a video game may change the relationship between cognitive ability and game success by allowing players to learn from one another instead of solely their own abilities. As part of a larger cognitive intervention designed for older adults, the 50 participants included in our analysis were randomly assigned to either play games alone or take turns with a partner for one hour a day over fifteen days. Those playing with a partner outscored those playing alone. Multiple cognitive abilities predicted game success, but there was also evidence to suggest a moderating effect when playing with a partner on the predictive power of certain cognitive abilities.