title: Multi-domain computerized cognitive training program improves performance of bookkeeping tasks: a matched-sampling active-controlled trial.
abstract: Cognitive skills are important predictors of job performance, but the extent to which computerized cognitive training (CCT) can improve job performance in healthy adults is unclear. We report, for the first time, that a CCT program aimed at attention, memory, reasoning and visuo-spatial abilities can enhance productivity in healthy younger adults on bookkeeping tasks with high relevance to real-world job performance. 44 business students (77.3% female, mean age 21.4 ± 2.6 years) were assigned to either (a) 20 h of CCT, or (b) 20 h of computerized arithmetic training (active control) by a matched sampling procedure. Both interventions were conducted over a period of 6 weeks, 3-4 1-h sessions per week. Transfer of skills to performance on a 60-min paper-based bookkeeping task was measured at three time points-baseline, after 10 h and after 20 h of training. Repeated measures ANOVA found a significant Group X Time effect on productivity (F = 7.033, df = 1.745; 73.273, p = 0.003) with a significant interaction at both the 10-h (Relative Cohen's effect size = 0.38, p = 0.014) and 20-h time points (Relative Cohen's effect size = 0.40, p = 0.003). No significant effects were found on accuracy or on Conners' Continuous Performance Test, a measure of sustained attention. The results are discussed in reference to previous findings on the relationship between brain plasticity and job performance. Generalization of results requires further study.
authors.affiliation: Regenerative Neuroscience Group, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia ; Lauder Business School Vienna, Austria.
authors.forename: Amit
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Lampit
authors.affiliation: Lauder Business School Vienna, Austria ; Department of Marketing, University of Vienna Vienna, Austria.
authors.forename: Claus
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ebster
authors.affiliation: Regenerative Neuroscience Group, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Valenzuela
keywords: bookkeeping; cognitive training; far transfer; job performance; young adults