Improving spatial functioning in children with cerebral palsy using computerized and traditional game tasks.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the effectiveness of combining virtual environment (VE) instruction with additional desk-top tasks, based on the Luria-Vygotsky methodology, for spatial remediation in children having complex motor disabilities restricting movement.


METHODS
In Experiment 1, from among children attending for residential rehabilitation, an experimental subgroup had additional spatial training using a VE and corresponding desk-top models. All children were tested at the start and end of training, using four spatial tests. In Experiment 2, larger groups of children (pair-matched for initial performance) were given the same training as in Experiment 1, but experimentals received both VE-based training and supporting tasks designed to improve executive functions and verbal regulation of spatial functioning. Assessment involved a wider range of tests than in Experiment 1.


RESULTS
In Experiment 1, both groups showed improvement at retest, but experimentals showed greater improvement. Children beginning with the lowest level of cognitive performance failed to benefit from the additional training. In Experiment 2 the experimental group made significantly greater improvement than controls, irrespective of initial performance level.


CONCLUSIONS
VE-based spatial training is effective for children with complex disabilities, particularly when combined with training that remediates cognitive weaknesses.
Akhutina
Tat'yana
T
Faculty of Psychology, Moscow State University, Russia.
Foreman
Nigel
N
Krichevets
Anatoly
A
Matikka
Leena
L
Narhi
Vesa
V
Pylaeva
Natalia
N
Vahakuopus
Jelena
J
D000293:Adolescent; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018782:Maze Learning / Q000502:physiology; D009949:Orientation / Q000502:physiology; D013028:Space Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D014705:Verbal Behavior / Q000502:physiology